Pipe Restoration Technologies Awarded U.S. Patent #8354140 for ePIPE In-Place Pipe Restoration Technology

Pipe Restoration Technologies, LLC (PRT) announced that it has been awarded U.S. Patent #8354140 by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

The patent focuses on enhancements to ePIPE technology, an in-place pipe restoration process designed to apply an internal barrier coating inside existing pipes while the pipes remain in place. This approach helps prevent leaks and reduce the effects of internal pipe corrosion without relying on conventional repair or full repiping methods.

The patent applies to pipe systems used to carry potable water, natural gas, fire sprinkler systems, and drains.

“Our research and development team are proud of our ongoing innovation program and this accomplishment. This is our 7th patent that focuses on in-place restoration technologies.” said Larry Gillanders, CEO

Supporting Innovation in Pipe Restoration

The ACE DuraFlo®, ePIPE® team has been twice nominated for the U.S. National Medal of Technology and Innovation. In Canada, Larry Gillanders has also been qualified as a candidate for the 2013 Manning Awards for Innovation.

The U.S. National Medal of Technology and Innovation is the highest honor for technological achievement bestowed by the President of the United States on America’s leading innovators.

Supporters of the ePIPE nomination included Dr. Marc Edwards, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Virginia Tech. Dr. Edwards has been honored by the White House with a National Science Foundation Presidential Faculty Fellowship.

Why This Patent Matters

Patent #8354140 further strengthens PRT’s portfolio of in-place pipe restoration technologies. By advancing internal pipe coating methods, ePIPE provides an alternative to disruptive pipe replacement for many types of piping systems.

For property owners, facility managers, municipalities, and contractors, in-place pipe restoration can help reduce downtime, limit demolition, and extend the service life of existing piping infrastructure.