Environmental_Chamber_Site_Visit_-_Q&As.pdf

Environmental Chamber Site Visit

Solicitation 2017-N-66798

Questions and Answers

1. Could you please describe the testing that will occur in this Environmental Chamber and the number of people that will be working inside the chamber?

The chamber is used to test mine escape respirators. The respirators are cold-soaked for twenty-four (24) hours and then are tested in the chamber at the cold-soak temperature. An automated breathing and metabolic simulator will be used to study mine escape respirator performance at the manufacturer’s minimum recommended operating temperature. The ABMS simulator unit will be located outside of the chamber and be connected to the chamber via the simulated trachea using the pass through ports. The mine escape respirator will be connected to the end of the trachea protruding through a pass through port inside the chamber.

The chamber is not man-rated. The chamber will be used for equipment testing only. Please see the revised

Statement of Work (SOW) incorporated into the revised RFP.

2. How many respirators are tested at a time?

One (1) respirator is tested at a time.

3. Is there a heat load?

The heat load is insignificant and shall not be considered in drafting a proposal.

4. What type of air flow/temperature control tolerance is required?

The chamber air delivery system shall provide for a uniform temperature distribution inside the chamber. Please see the revised Statement of Work (SOW) incorporated into the revised RFP.

5. Can you confirm the power supply available for the chamber?

A 480V / 3 phase / 60 amp power supply is available. A typo in the SOW has been corrected. Please see the revised Statement of Work (SOW) incorporated into the revised RFP.

6. Where is the power supply located?

The power supply will be located at the other end of the high bay area in Building 40. All utility connections, including electric connections, will be located within ten (10) feet from the chamber.

7. The temperature range listed in the specifications is a concern. While possible, anything beyond 85 degrees Celsius increases the delamination concern.

Please see the revised Statement of Work (SOW). Offerors shall proposed the equipment they deem appropriate to meet the required temperature and humidity specifications.

8. Is there a chilled water supply available?

The water is air cooled and is located outside of the building.

9. Where will the condenser be located?

The condenser unit will be on the exterior of the building, approximately 10-20 feet from the chamber. As indicated in the SOW, the offeror is responsible for all connections.

10. Is a water purification system required?

Yes. The offeror shall provide a water purification system with the proposed chamber and related components.

Please see the revised Statement of Work (SOW) incorporated into the revised RFP.

11. There is an overhead crane located in Building 40. Will this crane be removed?

No. The crane will remain in the building. The maximum height of the chamber, including all related components, shall not exceed 9 feet.

12. Is there a reason that the exterior of the chamber is stainless steel?

The exterior of the chamber shall be fabricated of corrosion resistant materials. Stainless steel is not required.

Please see the revised Statement of Work (SOW) incorporated into the revised RFP.

13. Where is the condensate drain located?

The condensate drain is located on the exterior of the building, on the other side of the wall that the chamber will be placed against.