Q&A_1_Louvers.docx

MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND

N32205-18-Q-4318

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS #1

The following are answers to questions received from potential offerors. The answers provide clarification only and DO NOT constitute an amendment to the solicitation.

1. Are there models available that we can utilize (CAD files)?

No, CAD files are not available

2. How do the louvers attach to the box in the current configuration? Is that at the supplier’s discretion?

The louvers currently installed on the ship are welded to the ship. A picture of an example is provided below.

3. The wire mesh screen with a 0.105 dia minimum which covers the louver assy. is listed as a Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP), however it is not common to call out a wire gauge when talking about plastics…on top of which…we are having trouble sourcing anything with the appropriate geometry. Please clarify.

As identified in drawing 512-8496620, detail 44-A, Wiremesh, louvers coaming and stiffener bars must be of fiberglass reinforced composite. The “wiremesh” term still refers to a foreign object damage (FOD) screen resembling that of a grid with ½” square openings and .105” FRP structure. Recognizing the limitations of molding this “wiremesh” out of FRP, the structure may be up to .25”.

4. Please Clarify what “General Note 2” is.

General note 2 states This is clear that anything and everything that is done to develop and install the product must meet ABS and US Coast Guard rules. Those rules for flame spread and smoke generation are provided below. The MSC General Technical Requirements provide additional workmanship and procedural requirements. They are provided separately. Proof of meeting these requirements must be provided with the proposal the contractor provides. Beyond these, the contractor is free to accomplish the requirements in any means applicable.

5.5 Flame Spread

All FRP gratings, except those fitted on open decks and within tanks, cofferdams, void spaces, pipe tunnels and ducts, are to have low flame spread characteristics as determined by one of the following test procedures:

5.5.1 Tested to ASTM E-84 with a flame spread rating not to exceed 20; or 5.5.2 Tested to IMO Resolution A.653(16), Recommendation on Improved Fire Test Procedures for Surface Flammability of Bulkhead, Ceiling and Deck Finish Materials and meeting the criteria for bulkheads, linings, or ceilings.

5.7 Smoke Generation

FRP gratings within accommodation, service and control spaces are to have low smoke characteristics as determined by one of the following test procedures:

5.7.1 Tested to ASTM E-84 with a smoke developed rating not to exceed 10; or 5.7.2 Tested in accordance with the IMO Fire Test Procedures Code (FTPC), Resolution MSC.61(67), Part 2 – Smoke and Toxicity

5. Are the louvers custom fit for each ship or do provisions need to be provided for fitting?

Louvers are identical for each ship but there is likely to be some minor fitting needed. Detail 26-D of drawing 8496620 will allow for those minor changes.

6. Are their pictures available that show what is between the louver and combing?

Provided below.

7. When are you planning to award?

Contracting officer will award after proposals are offered and bids are reviewed. This is expected to occur in the next 60 to 90 days.

8. Will there be other ships needing composite louvers?

Yes, other ships need the composite louvers but each purchase is up to the individual ship. Contractor is to assume that this purchase is the only purchase.

Pictures of louvers are provided below. These are from the main deck starboard side forward, about frame 48. Four pictures showing the louvers from the inside, one picture from the outside. Slats are ordinary steel welded to the side. This contract DOES NOT concern itself with any portion of removals of the current louvers or installation of the composite louvers.

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