STI/SPFA members build steel water pipe that meets or exceeds the requirements of ASCE, AWWA, SWPMTAC and all industry Standards for water transmission. The welded steel pipe built by members is available in diameters up to 180 inches under either internal or external pressure. STI/SPFA members are actively involved in standards development activities, and have written several design manuals, developed design software and are actively involved in research projects testing joint efficiencies, and developing recommendations for coating procedures on internal welds after backfill is in place. The Pipe Quality Audit Certification is a major accomplishment achieved by many STI/SPFA pipe fabricators.

Pipe Quality Audit Certification Program

The SPFA Pipe Quality Certification is a requirement in many piping bid specifications in the water transmission industry, due to its industry specific focus. The audit program is administered through a third party quality assurance organization, and requires rigorous annual inspections and re-certification every three years. The audit evaluates a company’s management, organization, QC program, procurement and engineering, specifically as they relate to the needs of the water transmission industry.

Specifying engineers are more frequently demanding that manufacturers be certified through third party audits, to gain assurance that a supplier goes beyond minimum standards to develop a quality operation.  The SPFA Pipe Quality Certification is a requirement in many piping bid specifications in the water transmission industry, due to its industry specific focus."All steel pipe and steel pipe fittings shall be manufactured and fabricated by a certified SPFA (Steel Plate Fabricators Association) facility", is a standard phrase in pipe specifications.

The audit program is administered through a third party quality assurance organization, and requires rigorous annual inspections and re-certification every three years.  The audit evaluates a company's management, organization, QC program, procurement and engineering, specifically as they relate to the needs of the water transmission industry.  The SPFA Pipe Quality Certification denotes outstanding achievement.