Questions and Answers.docx

We noticed that the SF-1449 form and the first two pages of the PDF were not included in the solicitation. To ensure the requirements' completeness, accuracy, and integrity, could you please provide SF-1449 and the first two pages of this solicitation?

Pages 1 and 2 will not be included. The information on those pages do not contain pertinent details and will not prohibit the vendor from responding to this solicitation with completeness, accuracy and integrity.

We assume that CLIN 0001 refers to the base procurement listed in section 3.1 (page 5). Please confirm. We request detailed information for the following:

Studio 5000 Professional Edition with Standard TE (Section 3.1.1 (1)) There are so many line items and catalog parts under this requirement that it seems more of an objective than a comprehensive description of your needs. We ask you to provide a Rockwell automation part number and the requested quantities.

The performance work statement outlines an objective, and is not a prescription of how you must fully complete the work.

The solicitation in section 3.2.2 requires: "The contractor shall perform a site visit to verify the hardware currently installed at the LCC, and the dimensions of the current enclosure and panels. The contractor shall provide engineering services to identify hardware that should be retained and hardware that should be replaced to modernize and upgrade the CCM. In addition, the contractor shall check the condition and placement of wiring and hardware that is to be retained. Note: One of the PLC 5 racks, PLC Dyno, consists of two remote racks and another rack, LCP 6, has another remote rack inside."

Section 3.2.2 requires both engineering services and the responsibility to develop comprehensive specifications and hardware requirements as part of an engineering study, as well as to provide the necessary hardware, software development, and integration services. While we can certainly accommodate this approach based on our past performance, we believe it contradicts the use of LPTA per FAR 15.101-2(c)(1), as it suggests the agency does not intend to comply with this FAR provision.

Furthermore, FAR 15.101-2(d) advises contracting officers to "avoid, to the maximum extent practicable, using the lowest price technically acceptable source selection process in the case of a procurement that is predominantly for the acquisition of— (1) Information technology services, cybersecurity services, systems engineering and technical assistance services, advanced electronic testing, audit or audit readiness services, health care services and records, telecommunications devices and services, or other knowledge-based professional services;"

We respectfully request that the contracting officer take corrective action to amend this apparent FAR violation to ensure compliance and clarity in the solicitation process.

An on-site visitation is not part of the pre-award requirements and is not being offered to any quoters. Please quote based on the attached specifications.

Special Qualifications The solicitation in section 4.2 requires the contractor to ensure that all contractor employees can be approved for DoD installation access. However, the specification that this access would be granted only to U.S. citizens may be problematic. Per 8 USC 1324b(a)(1)(C), such a requirement could be interpreted as discriminatory based on national origin or citizenship status.

We have not identified any clearance requirements for this procurement that necessitate U.S. citizenship. Therefore, to ensure compliance and clarity, we request the removal of the example necessitating U.S. citizenship from the solicitation.

This clause and requirement is nonnegotiable.

Can we please have a drawing or image depicting all of the hardware and network architecture including but limited to plc racks, remote I/O, HMI's, etc. that is required to be replaced?

See the attached pictures and drawings that will hopefully alleviate many of these questions.

We request the agency to provide snapshots of the current:

HMI screens in use, along with a detailed description of each screen's functionality. List of tags and alerts, including their type, value range, and alert range.

While we cannot provide the entire tag data base or the entire screen database, I can provide how many tags there are and how many screens we use. The Operator HMI has 99 screens and approximately 3,600 tags. The LCP6 HMI has 11 screens and approximately 400 tags. The LCP2 HMI has 8 screens and 0 tags (all screen objects are direct addressed to the PLC.) The contractor is responsible for updating the tag database and pointing the tags at the correct address for each screen. The contractor is not responsible for modifying the screens in any other way.

PLC code is accessible and if it can be shared with the contractor upon award.

Yes. The drawings are included with the answers to these questions.

Any conduit and cabling requirements for ground, AC, DC, ethernet, and serial cables. Include layout diagrams and photos of the cabling locations.

Every Logic Control Panel should be set up such that the contractor will not need to add ground, AC, DC, ethernet, or serial cables. The contractor should only need to replace the PLCs.

Please provide photos of where the new PLC cabinet should be mounted with dimensions.

There is no requirement for a new PLC cabinet. All current PLC racks are already installed inside Logic Control Panels that are more than large enough to accept the new PLC racks assuming the old rack is either removed or reused in the case of using the overlay option.

Please provide a comprehensive list of all devices, sensors, and apparatus controlled by the PLCs, including:

Manufacturer, Sensor Type, Model, Version, and Manufacturing Year Voltage Rating: Specify AC/DC, voltage high/low.

Current Rating Signal Specifications: Analog, Serial, Digital.

Number of Wires Specify protocols such as Serial, Modbus, Profibus, Canbus, All devices, sensors, and apparatus controlled by the PLCs are already run and terminated to the devices, sensors, and apparatus, and the existing PLCs. The contractor is only responsible for installing the new PLCs and connecting them to the wiring already in place. The contractor may be responsible for running a new wire inside the cabinet from the terminal to the PLC rack if the existing wire is not long enough.

Could you please specify the communication protocol currently in place for integrating with the existing equipment? Understanding this will help us ensure compatibility with the new ControlLogix systems.

There is already a communication network set up that allows all of the PLCs to communicate with each other inside their respective cabinets. The PLCs are connected via ethernet to a fiber optic hub that then communicates with a large network switch hub in a singular area. The only thing expected from the contractor is to use the communication network already in place.

Will the existing PLC logic be migrated using Rockwell's software migration tool, or is there an expectation to develop new code leveraging the advanced programming features of the new PLCs? This information is crucial for us to plan the scope of work accurately.

The contractor is allowed to use whichever method is easiest or makes the most sense. Attached is the current ladder logic. There are some parts of the ladder logic that may or may not easily be transferred by the migration tool.

Is there an existing document detailing the PLC logic and sequence of operation that needs to be migrated? If available, could you please share these documents to assist us in understanding the current setup and required modifications?

Unfortunately, we know of no existing document that details the PLC logic and sequence of operation. If there is, it is likely obsolete.

Regarding the replacement of the two PanelView Plus 7 HMIs, could you confirm if the new HMIs should be 15-inch PanelView 7 Plus models, or if you are considering the newer ASEM 6300 Powered Panel PCs with FactoryTalk View ME Station replacement?

We do not need a specific Panel. The PanelView speced was speced because it fit the criteria that we need. If the contractor deems that a different Panel would be better and cheaper but still fits the criteria the contractor is allowed to request the use of that panel, however we do ask that the panel be Rockwell.

Additionally, could you provide information on the number of screens and the extent of modifications required for the new FactoryTalk View GUI?

The extent of modifications would involve updating the tags with the new tag database. The screens themselves do not need their functionality changed.

Is there an existing communication switch inside the panels, or is there an expectation for us to provide one as part of the upgrade?

There is already a communication network set up that allows all of the PLCs to communicate with each other inside their respective cabinets. The PLCs are connected via ethernet to a fiber optic hub that then communicates with a large network switch hub in a singular area. The only thing expected from the contractor is to use the communication network already in place.

Are there any expectations or requirements for providing field and control power supplies as part of this upgrade?

120V and 24V power is already provided inside each Logic Control Panel already on site.

Both CLINs currently list West Bethesda, MD, as the delivery location, while the project involves hardware and materials needed at the Carderock Division (NSWCCD), Memphis Detachment in Tennessee.

Please deliver all hardware and materials to NSWCCD, Memphis Detachment 3001 Harbor Ave. Memphis, TN 38113-0428.

Please note that all deliveries and work will be conducted at the LCC in Memphis.

CLIN 0001 requires an "Upgrade to the PLC," which falls under the services listed as part of the optional procurement detailed in section 3.2 (section 3.2.1 states: "The contractor shall inspect, design, fabricate, integrate, test, and commission a modernization upgrade to the LCC CCM."). Are the services of upgrading the PLC, as required by section 3.2.1, relevant to CLIN 0001 or CLIN 0002 as optional procurement?

I do not fully understand the question but every PLC that is currently PLC5 needs to be upgraded. The scope is limited to the PLCs located in the seven Logic Control Panels located around the facility.

Please provide the Rockwell automation part number and the requested quantity.

I am attaching images of the PLC architecture that specifies every PLC rack and their respective cards that need to be replaced.

The requirement for software manuals can be interpreted in multiple ways. Would you require a Software User Manual for the Studio 5000?

We do not need the manual for Studio 5000.

This requirement for a Software User Manual can also be interpreted as a requirement for a software manual after the modernization of the new PLCs and User Interface (HMI). Per our interpretation of the project dynamics, such manuals are part of CLIN 0002 deliverables listed in section 3.2.9, creating duplicated requirements and a lack of clarity.

Please identify and specify the Rockwell Automation part number if you still require a Software User Manual for this off-the-shelf product.

We do not need extra manuals that are not already provided with the equipment.

The solicitation conveys a requirement for the software platform only to edit the PLC instruction programming but not for the HMI to design the user interface. Is this accurate?

We do not need the new software, but we do expect the contractor to edit the software in use.

The Performance Work Statement (PWS) on page 5, section 3.1.2 (1) requires: "Equipment required to upgrade and integrate seven (7) PLC5 racks to ControlLogix." State the hardware requirements.

How many slots are required in this solicitation?

Explained in LCP Architecture pictures. If the contractor can condense the slots without changing the functionality, they can.

How many ControlLogix PLCs are required? Please provide a breakdown of:

The number of Digital DC output ports required per PLC.

The number of Digital DC input ports required per PLC.

The number of Digital AC output ports required per PLC.

The number of Digital AC input ports required per PLC.

The number of DC Relay output ports required per PLC.

The number of AC Relay output ports required per PLC.

The number of Analog output ports required per PLC.

The number of Analog input ports required per PLC.

The number of Analog RTD/temperature input ports required per PLC.

The number of Modbus devices connected to each PLC.

The number of HART devices connected to each PLC.

The number of variable frequency drives controlled from each PLC.

The number of Ethernet ports required per PLC.

Explained in LCP Architecture pictures. The number of PLCs required are the number required to upgrade the existing PLCs. If the contractor can condense the amount of PLCs without changing the functionality, they can. Each PLC currently has one Ethernet port per PLC.

It is unclear if the seven PLCs reside in the same control panel or if they are distributed around the facility. Please provide as-built drawings of your current configuration.

The PLCs reside in seven different Logic Control Panels (LCPs) distributed around the facility. Included are drawings of the LCP architecture and the wire diagrams for each LCP excluding 3. All applicable signal wiring and communications are already located inside each LCP.

The agency has specified a requirement for two 15” HMI monitors. Are there any more requiremtns as to mounting?

We are replacing two existing HMI monitors already mounted in a cabinet door with enough space to accommodate larger monitors. We ask that the contractor mount the HMIs where the existing HMIs are located. Please note that only the HMIs for Logic Control Panels 2 and 6 are being replaced. In the attached pictures Logic Control Panels 1, 4, and 5 also have HMIs, those are not being replaced.

The solicitation in section 3.1.2 (3) states: "Equipment required to integrate two (2) Automax PLC racks, one (1) existing ControlLogix rack, two (2) CompactLogix racks, one (1) large VFD, and two (2) small VFDs.

It is unclear whether the contractor is responsible for quoting this hardware If the contractor is responsible, what are the specific hardware requirements for these Automax PLC racks? If the government is responsible, please identify and list all hardware and software requirements for integration.

The Automax is no longer required as part of this contract. It will be abandoned.

Who will provide the ControlLogix rack?

If the contractor is responsible, please provide the salient characteristics of the rack, including dimensions, material, installation location, power requirements, ethernet requirements, cabling requirements, and communication protocols.

If the government is responsible, please identify and list all hardware and software requirements for integration.

The ControlLogix rack is already in use on site. Integration should include making sure that the existing rack communicates with the new racks being installed. We will provide the program.

Who will provide the large VFD and the two small VFDs?

If the contractor is responsible, please specify the horsepower or kW rating for each VFD and motor.

If the government provides the VFDs and the contractor is responsible for integration, please specify the existing VFD manufacturer, model, serial numbers, kW/HP ratings, supported integration protocols, and necessary hardware and software requirements to integrate these existing VFDs with the new PLCs.

The VFDs are already in use on site. Integration should include making sure that the existing VFD controls and communication capabilities are retained in the new PLC programming.

The agency has not yet provided the requirements for a rack or a control cabinet/control panel for the new ControlLogix PLCs. This includes details on auxiliary networking and switching equipment, power supplies, redundancy needs, power requirements, backup and recovery needs, and remote i/o rack needs. Furthermore, Most PLC setups include some strobe lights or visible notifications and audible alerts and sirens, should they be required.

These hardware requirements are site-specific and depend on the local infrastructure at the existing site, as well as the electrical and layout configuration and use-case scenarios.

If this equipment is to be included in this solicitation, please provide a comprehensive description of these requirements, including specific metrics and site conditions, to ensure an accurate and compliant proposal.

This contract only involves the upgrading of the existing PLC racks. The contractor is not expected to provide new panels, switches, or anything else that is not the PLC rack.

The solicitation in section 3.2.2 requires: "The contractor shall perform a site visit to verify the hardware currently installed at the LCC, and the dimensions of the current enclosure and panels. The contractor shall provide engineering services to identify hardware that should be retained and hardware that should be replaced to modernize and upgrade the CCM. In addition, the contractor shall check the condition and placement of wiring and hardware that is to be retained. Note: One of the PLC 5 racks, PLC Dyno, consists of two remote racks and another rack, LCP 6, has another remote rack inside."

Section 3.2.2 requires both engineering services and the responsibility to develop comprehensive specifications and hardware requirements as part of an engineering study, as well as to provide the necessary hardware, software development, and integration services.

Please clarify.

We have an existing PLC system that needs to be upgraded. We are not telling the contractor exactly how to do their job or start from scratch making a new control system. The contractor is allowed to use their own discretion on the best way to replace the current PLCs as we do not want to force the contractor to do the job a specific way even if it is not necessarily the best way to do the job. It is recommended but not required that the contractor sends a representative to the LCC for a site visit as the majority of these questions would be answered by conducting a site visit. If we need to set a specific date that the contractors are allowed to send a representative to visit the site, please let me know and we can work that out.

For copies of the system pictures and drawings, please e-mail Michael Bonaiuto at michael.j.bonaiuto.civ@us.navy.mil for a link.