Rev. 3_FA9101-20-Q-2009_QnA.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

HEADQUARTERS AIR FORCE TEST CENTER (AFMC)

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE CALIFORNIA

12 Aug 2020

MEMORANDUM FOR WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

SUBJECT: FA9101-20-Q-2009, Vertical CNC Machine, Questions and Answers, Rev. 3

1. Will the government off load and place the machine in the spot of operation and connect the electrical to the machine?

The vendor will be responsible for providing all rigging to offload and install the machine inside the shop.

To clarify, the Government will supply utility hookups such as air and electrical and ensure the facility is wired and ready for the machine to hook up. However, the vendor will be responsible for performing the final panel connections inside the machine prior to acceptance.

2. The requirement at item 2.1.7 of the Requirements Document states a need for a

Renishaw probe system. The Marposs probing system is considered a commercial equal, is that acceptable?

Renishaw is required due to existing infrastructure and shop personnel expertise.

The Marposs system would require user training and additional shop supplies to maintain.

3. What is the building voltage?

The building has 230V AC and 440V AC. The current machine is connected to

230V.

4. Can the Government recommend local riggers and electricians?

Rigging: Southwest Rigging and Greene Crane and Rigging

Electrical: Southwestern Electrical and Zuni Electric

5. Is there a machine positioning and repeatability accuracy standard the Government is trying to achieve/maintain? Does the absence of Absolute Encoders eliminate a machine from consideration, even if it otherwise meets all defined specifications?

The Absolute Encoders is the industry standard for modern machine tools. Some vendors with older designs, use glass scales to control position. These scales are prone to error.

The Absolute encoder is directly coupled to the ball screw and is the most accurate method of controlling position. Since the specifications require the

Absolute Encoder, failure to include one will make the machine technically unacceptable.

6. With regards to item 2.1.1 of the Requirements Docunment, is the 25 HP considered a

“peak”, or “duty cycle”/continuous rating?

This would be a peak rating. Duty Cycle will vary from machine to machine and can change depending on the torque load.