Navy Dunnage Bar RFI.docx

Request for Information (RFI): Modification of Dunnage Bar – Length Reduction

1. Purpose This RFI seeks information from qualified vendors regarding the feasibility, recommended approach, rough order magnitude, lead time, and any risks associated with modifying 1,176 existing dunnage bars by reducing their overall length. The intent is to gather information to inform a possible future procurement or contract. Additionally, vendors are requested to provide separate information and feasibility assessments comparing the modification using:

· The existing wood components retained, versus

· New replacement wood components installed during the modification

2. Background

· Current part: Dunnage bar, used in shipping to secure cargo or equipment inside of boxcars.

· Material: Steel and oak wood

· Current dimensions: Overall length varies between approximately 109” – 112” fully collapsed and 112” – 115” fully expanded. The steel beam exhibits an S-shaped cross section, with two oak wood bars on either side. The bars shall be shortened to 107” center-hole to center-hole fully collapsed.

3. Scope of Information Requested A. Modification Approaches Please provide information separately for these two scenarios:

1. Modifying the dunnage bar length while retaining and reusing the existing wood components:

· Feasibility of cutting/shortening the bar and the current wood pieces without compromising strength or fit.

· Required wood treatment or repair for reinstallation.

· Risks related to wood integrity during/after modification.

2. Modifying the dunnage bar length with complete removal of existing wood and installation of new wood components on both sides of the crossbar:

· Difference in level of effort, lead time, and durability compared to retaining existing wood.

B. Technical requirements identification

· Proposed manufacturing/modification method(s).

· Structural implications of cutting/rejoining frame components.

· Welding or mechanical fastening recommendations.

· Quality control, inspection, and testing processes.

C. Testing, validation, and certification

· Recommended testing (dimensional, NDT, tensile, fatigue, functional load test).

· Ability to perform FEA and provide analysis reports.

· Certifications available (ISO 9001, AS9100, AWS welding qualifications, NADCAP, etc.).

· Inspection and test plans (ITP) and sample acceptance criteria.

D. Manufacturing capacity, lead time, and rough order magnitude

· Minimum order quantities.

· Lead time estimates and rough order magnitude costs for modifying dunnage bars with:

· Retaining existing wood

· Installing new wood components (solid oak wood on both sides of the crossbar) E. Risk identification

· Identification of risks unique to each approach (wood damage, fit issues, structural concerns).

· Warranty/guarantee terms.

F. Experience and references

· Examples of similar work performed (brief description, photos).

4. Minimum Submission Requirements Please submit the following as part of your RFI response:

· Point of contact for this RFI (name, title, phone, email).

· Company profile (capabilities, facility location(s), quality certifications).

· Detailed modification approach descriptions for both scenarios.

· Rough order magnitude and lead time estimates. Please note that this RFI request is non-binding, high-level cost information for budgetary planning purposes. It is not a bid solicitation and will not result in a contract.

· Risk assessments and mitigation strategies.

· List of required drawings, information, or samples you need from us to provide a firm quote.

· Any assumptions used in your responses.

· Confidentiality statement (if applicable).

· Optional: attach proposed layout or annotated drawing showing where modifications would occur.

8. Attachments (Provide with RFI) image6.jpeg image1.jpeg image2.jpeg image3.jpeg image4.jpeg image5.jpeg