19AQMM24R0230 QA dated 03 Sep 24.pdf

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19AQMM24R0230 AMENDMENT 001

BLAST ATTRIBUTE SENSITIVITY STUDY (1,000 LB) (BASS)

Dated September 3, 2024

QUESTION

1. Can get quick response to be posted to address the request for extension, even if partial extension can be approved - compared to the two-week extension requested- that would be very valuable.

RESPONSE

The offeror due date(s) for both solicitations has been extended to October 3, 2024, at 1 PM on SAM.gov.

QUESTION/COMMENTS

Current SOW lists the charge weight for 1000 lbs that applies to all explosive materials (ANFO, TNT and C4) with standoff of 60 ft from the reaction structure. Based on the proposed charge weights for the various explosive materials and associated standoffs, the preliminary predicted blast loading on the reaction structure will be:

For ANFO: 125psi/ 360psi-msec

For C4: 196 psi/ 500 psi-msec

For TNT: 155 psi/ 415 psi-msec

These preliminary values show that the targeted blast loading per SOW exceeds the typical High Load adopted by DOS, especially when dealing with C4 and TNT. These higher loads also would have major impact on reaction structure and associated fixturing requirements that need to be enhanced to accommodate a rigid response to the new demand, that will need major funds, time and operations.

2. The offeror requests DOS to confirm if the targeted blast loading is to keep it within range of the High Load parameters adopted by DOS.

If this is the case, utilization of the existing fixturing and infrastructure suited for the High Load will be adopted. This will optimize cost, time and operations required to execute this proposed program.

- Assuming the charge weight value is to remain constant for all the energetic materials, the offeror recommends DOS to either reduce the charge size or increase the standoff distance to achieve the targeted High Blast load range. Two options are listed below for consideration.

2 | P a g e o Option 1- 1000 lbs at 90 ft Option 2- 500 lbs at 60 ft TNT: 49 psi / 258 psi-ms TNT: 78 psi / 251 psi-ms ANFO: 41 psi / 224 psi-ms ANFO: 65 psi / 218 psi-ms C-4: 61 psi / 308 psi-ms C-4: 99 psi / 301 psi-ms

The offeror would like DOS to consider Option 2. This selection will integrate significant cost and time efficiencies with the reduced amount of explosive materials to procure and setup, and reduced materials and efforts needed to address the ground treatment under the explosive charge.

RESPONSE

The requirements are set forth in the SOW. The intent and requirements of this effort were made clear in the SOW. All recommendations/options included in the offeror’s proposal will be reviewed and evaluated.

QUESTION/COMMENT

3. DOS to advise if they want an option to accommodate for a reaction structure and fixturing suited for the higher loads noted above (based on the charge and standoff values provided in the current SOW). The offeror will then provide an Optional line item with ROM for additional cost and time needed accordingly.

RESPONSE

The intent and requirements of this effort were made clear in the SOW. All recommendations/options included in the offeror’s proposal will be reviewed and evaluated.

QUESTION

4. What is the desired Period of Performance for this effort?

RESPONSE

The PoP is to be developed by the bidder based upon their proposal.

QUESTION/COMMENT

5. Do you see any concerns with performing these tests in a surface mine pit? The clear area at the bottom of the pit is large enough that reflected pressure will be well after the timeframe of interest for peak pressure and impulse measurements.

RESPONSE

The bidder may propose, detail, and support how they intend to fulfill the requirements of the SOW, to include how and where required testing shall be conducted.

QUESTION

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6. I was wondering if it is possible to get the report from the first study, and who was awarded to conduct the first study?

RESPONSE

DoS cannot provide any previous studies/testing/efforts. This information will be discussed/provided post award.

QUESTION

7. If a teaming arrangement is being proposed, is there a minimum requirement on the funding allocated to the prime as opposed to the subcontractor? (e.g., 51%).

RESPONSE

DS/PSD/RD is not aware of any minimum requirements.

QUESTION

8. Will the scope of the data analysis be limited to the 50 tests being performed within this program, or will it also include the 35 tests performed as part of the earlier, precursor tests (mentioned on p. 1 of the SOW)?

RESPONSE

Analysis is only required for the testing required in this SOW.

QUESTION

9. The SOW does not state the number or location of meetings; we will need this to estimate travel costs.

RESPONSE

The bidder shall recommend the number and location of any meetings as they determine will work best within the proposal/schedule.

QUESTION/COMMENT

10. In the cost proposal, is it sufficient to provide a single line-item cost for the subcontractor? If the government wishes to see further detail (labor hours, rates, ODCs), that may be obtained directly from the subcontractor at a subsequent time.

RESPONSE

Yes.