RFI USDA - NCCCWA Water Softener Replacement 08-19-2021.docx

United States Department of Agriculture Research, Education and Economics Agricultural Research Service

August 19, 2021

IN REPLY

REFER TO: Solicitation: 12305B21R0033 NCCCWA Water Softener

1. Reference: Master Specifications (Attachment 3) / SECTION 22 31 00, Part 3.4 – TESTING AND PERFORMANCE Question: Part 3.4.1 (testing of softeners) states that water is to be “…wasted to the sewer if necessary, to maintain the required flow rate.” Please identify the specific location of the existing sewer or drain to which water discharged by testing is to be drained.

Answer: Attached photo shows drain piping to be 24” from cofferdam to centerline of an 8” x 8” floor drain.

2. Reference: Master Specifications (Attachment 3) / SECTION 22 31 00, Part 3.5 – FIELD PAINTING Question: Please confirm that no painting work is required at piping, concrete equipment pads, metals, or any other existing items, and that only the touch-up of “Factory painted items requiring touching up in the field” is required, as described in Part 3.5.

Answer: No painting will be required to existing and remaining pads and/or piping.

3. Reference: Master Specifications (Attachment 3) / SECTION 22 31 00, Part 3.4.2 - Piping (TESTING AND PERFORMANCE) Question:

a. Please confirm that an electric power source (panelboard, breaker/switch box, other) will be provided on-site by the Owner for the Contractor’s use, including the location, voltage, amperage and spare capacity.

b. Part 3.4.2 states “The obtaining of water, electric power, and other utility items as well as the disposal of water drainage are also the responsibilities of Contractor.” Please clarify this statement and confirm that water, electric and all utilities required for the work of this project will be provided by the Owner.

Answer: This project is to replace an existing failing water softener. All existing utilities are currently available for the current equipment; Contractor to verify that existing capacities are sufficient to meet new installation requirements.

4. Reference: Bid Bond Question: Is a Bid Bond required to be provided for this proposal?

Answer: A bid guarantee is required if the proposal amount exceeds $150,000.

5. Reference: Building Automation System (BAS) / Connections to Water Softening System Question:

a. Please identify the Manufacturer and or the Company currently providing services for and maintenance of the existing Building Automation System (BAS), and provide the name, email and phone number for the point of contact person.

b. Please identify the requirements for any and all connections between the water softening system and the BAS.

Answer: A. BAS – Schneider Electric StruxureWare – Control Systems Inc, Hagerstown, MD POC: Robert Socks (301) 791-1166 JRSocks@CSIHagerstown.com

B. Direct cabled communication to GAC building non-existent. Current system for emergency pressure loss is via “Sensaphone 400” remote monitoring system. No requirements currently for integration between water softener and BAS, just BAS and water tower pressure.

6. Reference: Raw Water Quality and Contents Question: Please provide data for the quality, contents and characteristics of the raw water being supplied to the water softening system

Answer: See attached water quality sheets.

7. Reference: Period of Performance / Impact of Potential Long-Lead Equipment Items Question: Please confirm that the Owner will extend the Period of Performance as required if any key project components are found to have significant fabrication and delivery time periods.

Answer: Period of Performance will be adjusted based upon current logistics and supply problems created by pandemic.

8. Was a water test ever performed? If so could you please email me the results? If no test was performed is there any objection to me taking a sample?

Answer: See attached water quality sheets image1.png