HP-SGNSC_QA _25_Oct_12.pdf

Questions and Answers Request For Proposal (RFP) FA8533-12-R-30143

High Purity-Self Generating Nitrogen Service Cart (HP-SGNSC) Program

25 October 2012

The following additional questions have been received in the AFLCMC/WNKBBB, Major Programs Contracting Office on the above High Purity-Self Generating Nitrogen Servicing Carts (HP-SGNSC) requirement. The questions as well as the applicable answers are provided below.

Question 1: Typically ground support equipment that interfaces directly with an aircraft would be equipped with a static grounding reel, cable and clamp. This assembly is typically used to ensure the ground support equipment and the aircraft are connected to a common ground and there is no electrical potential between. The Purchase Description does not require a grounding reel feature. Was this a potential oversight and will the carts be required to have them?

Government’s Response: There was no oversight. No grounding reel, cable, and clamp are required.

Question 2: [Purchase Description] paragraph 3.4 states: "Recycled, recovered, or environmentally preferable materials. Recycled, recovered, or environmentally preferable materials should be used to the maximum extent possible provided that the material meets the operational and maintenance requirements, and promotes economically advantageous life cycle costs. However, used, rebuilt, or refurbished items shall not be provided."

Based on the requirements of this paragraph, would a design that incorporates plastic (i.e. ABS), resin bound fibers (i.e. fiberglass/carbon graphite and epoxy resin) and/or fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) structures, enclosures or panels be viewed as a negative or a non-compliant design?

Government’s Response: The RFP provision, “Evaluation Basis for Award” states that each offeror shall submit a technical proposal for the Government to evaluate to determine if, “…the offeror provides a sound, compliant approach that meets the requirements of Purchase Description (PD) PD11WRGRVEA06 (and any revisions) and demonstrates a thorough knowledge and understanding of those requirements and their associated risks.” Though each offeror is responsible for identifying the characteristics of its design in its technical proposal, be advised that plastic (e.g. ABS), resin bound fibers (e.g. fiberglass/carbon graphite, epoxy resin) and/or fiberglass reinforced plastic structures, enclosures and/or panels are acceptable provided they are compliant with the requirements in the Purchase Description.

Question 3: [Purchase Description] paragraph 3.8.1.1.11 states: "The HPSGNSC shall be capable of storage and operation during snow and ice accretion up to 2 in/hr for at least 12 hours." A rate of 2-inches per hour for 12 hours would accumulate a total of 24 inches. This seems plausible for snow; however, it seems highly improbable for ice accretion. It seems that the specified rate would apply to snow accretion only. Can the government please clarify? If the rate is for snow only; what is the accretion rate for ice?

Government’s Response: The ice thickness is 37 mm which is specified in paragraph 4.8.4.11 of the Purchase Description.

Question 4: This question pertains to the Battle Dress Uniform, ACU, NBC warfare gear, MOPP and Arctic clothing. The PD has several references to MOPP (e.g. paragraph 3.23.2, 3.28.1, 3.37, 3.41, 4.8.16). Will the government provide the contractor a set of these uniform/clothing during the design and validation phase so the contractor can demonstrate the operation of the system with the limitations in motion, and tactile feel?

Government’s Response: The Government will not provide MOPP gear to the contractor. This type of gear is available to companies through a variety of commercial vendors and suppliers.

Question 5: This question pertains to the delivery hoses of the HP-SGNSC. Purchase Description paragraph 3.14 does not require the delivery hoses to have electrical conductivity from end fitting to end fitting. Without conductivity, the hose can become charged with static electricity. Eventually the static charge will become high enough in voltage to bridge the gap and create an arc of electric current. Any electrical arc of this nature would be considered a hazard around an aircraft. Typically a hose with electric conductivity is required for this type of equipment. Will be the government require electrically conductive hoses throughout the HP- SGNSC system?

Government’s Response: The Government does not require electrically conductive hoses in the HP-SGNSC unit.

Question 6: This question pertains to the extent of the Fungus test paragraph 4.8.4.7. Will the government allow testing samples of all the materials used in the construction of the HPSGNSC in lieu of placing the whole assembly in a test chamber?

Government’s Response: Yes.