Northwest Pipe Company has unveiled its Permalok® Radial Bending Joint (RBJ) technology in Florida, marking a significant advancement in water pipeline construction. The innovative RBJ, which is currently patent-pending, allows for the installation of steel casing pipe along curved paths in microtunneling applications. This development is expected to enhance maneuverability in areas where existing utility lines and infrastructure present challenges.
Enhancing Construction Efficiency
The introduction of the RBJ technology offers numerous advantages for construction projects. It enables contractors to navigate congested tunnel alignments more effectively, adapting to site-specific conditions. This results in a smaller jobsite footprint, fewer required shafts, and more precise tunneling over extended distances. In the ongoing South Hillsborough Pipeline project, Northwest Pipe Company is supplying 5,764 linear feet of Permalok® steel casing pipe, which includes 18 underground crossings.
Managed by Tampa Bay Water, this project aims to transport an additional 65 million gallons of water per day from a regional treatment facility located east of Tampa to a water treatment plant in Lithia and a future drinking water facility near Balm. The construction management is handled by Garney, while Huxted Trenchless is the designated microtunneling contractor.
The implementation of the RBJ allows for microtunneling shafts to be installed within designated bore path alignments, which follow easements and rights of way. This reduces the necessity for additional shafts, thereby minimizing construction costs and environmental impact.
Transforming Microtunneling Practices
“The RBJ is revolutionizing microtunneling,” stated Scott Montross, President and CEO of NWPX Infrastructure. “For the first time, steel casing pipe can be installed along a curved path in trenchless applications with ease. The RBJ’s curved segments facilitate the construction of microtunneling shafts within utility easements, eliminating the need for extra shafts and tunnels, which ultimately lowers project costs.”
Founded in 1966, NWPX Infrastructure is a leading manufacturer of water-related infrastructure products, operating under the Northwest Pipe Company brand. It is the largest producer of engineered water transmission systems in North America, specializing in steel casing pipe, bar-wrapped concrete cylinder pipe, and various pipeline system joints and fittings. The company also provides solution-based products for diverse markets, including reinforced precast concrete products and wastewater management equipment.
Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, NWPX Infrastructure operates 13 manufacturing facilities across North America and continues to address the growing needs in water and wastewater infrastructure. For further details about the Permalok RBJ and trenchless systems, interested parties can visit www.nwpipe.com.
Contact for further inquiries:
Aaron Wilkins
Chief Financial Officer
NWPX Infrastructure, Inc.
Phone: 360-397-6294
Email: [email protected]