Attachment_6_Block_9-11_Q&A's.docx

SOLICITATION NO.: R17PS00812

NAVAJO GALLUP WATER SUPPLY PROJECT – Blocks 9 - 11

SAN JUAN/MCKINLY COUNTIES, NEW MEXICO

Contractor Questions and Answers Received July 28, 2017

1) Question: “Bid Schedule: 31 02 30: Dust Palliative. Lump Sum. The Specification for Dust Palliative application is basically “as directed by the COR”. It is impossible to provide a reasonable lump sum price for an item when the criteria for use is so subjective. Can this item be changed to an estimated quantity using a unit of area of some sort; Square Yard, Square Feet, Acre?”

Response: No change will be made to the measurement of Dust Palliative. A lump sum price is being solicited for this item to encourage the contractor to limit the amount of area disturbed inside of the construction ROW to only what is necessary for pipeline construction.

2) Question: “Bid Schedule: 33 11 10: Line Pipe. Can the old Bureau of Reclamation Alternate Method of bidding Line Pipe be added to the bid schedule? (I.E. :alternate lump sum bid for Line Pipe Reach 9: alternate LS bid for Line Pipe Reach 10 and alternate LS bid for Line Pipe Reach 11). This would seem to be the logical way to bid the pipe particularly when you have alternate pipe options that do not correspond with the bid schedule.”

Response: See the updated Section B Price Schedules in this amendment for simplified Line Pipe and Sectionalizing Valve CLINs that will be independent of pipe material or pipe diameter. The Contractor will still need to meet the pressure class requirements as shown on the Drawings and the transitions from 48” to 42” diameter for the various pipe materials as shown on drawing 1695-D-60306, but the CLINs for Line Pipe and Sectionalizing Valves has been simplified to allow for an average unit price based on the Contractor’s selection of pipe material(s). Note that the K class pressure pipe, which is required at steep slopes and at specific wash crossings in the Drawings and Specifications, is designated as a Special Design, and further defined as restrained joint metallic pipe (butt-welded steel or restrained joint ductile iron) per the revised section 33 11 10 - Pipeline General Requirements. Due to the Special Design requirement, this pipe is listed as a separate CLIN (K Class Line Pipe) in the revised Price Schedules in this amendment.

3) Question: “Bid Schedule: 31 23 02: Compacting Earth Materials. There is normally a bid item for Compacting Backfill in Pipe Trenches. Is this incidental to the work or will an item be added?”

Response: Due to the relatively small amount of compaction required at roads, valves, washes, etc. as required by the Contract Specifications and Drawings, the cost for compacting earth materials is incidental to those other items of work.

4) Question: “Work Items: 26 42 10: Cathodic.

a) Who is responsible for A.C. Power to Impressed Current Rectifiers? ”

Response: The Contractor will be responsible for all construction or temporary power through final acceptance of the contract. Permanent power may not be available during construction.

b) Where would the A.C. Power be located to supply the Impressed Current Rectifiers along the laterals?

Response: The Government will provide permanent power to rectifiers located in Table 26 42 10A - Impressed Current Anode, which is dependent on the Contractor’s cathodic protection (CP) system design. No permanent power is available at this time. Once the Contractor’s CP system is designed, the Government will design a permanent power supply to the Contractor’s design location for each rectifier. The Contractor needs to include appropriate resources and costs in their bid to supply all construction or temporary power sources for all testing and other uses required by the Specifications through final acceptance of the contract.

c) If the Steel pipe option is used for Reach 10, will a Galvanic anode system be required to protect the pipe?

Response: The galvanic cathodic protection system is not required for Reach 10, if steel pipe is used.

5) Question: “If you intend to use Ductile Iron you still have to price using the bid schedule. The transition from 48” to 42” for DI is at station 90681+00 while the bid schedule is set up with quantities based on a transition from 48” to 42” at station 90879+00 so using DI you would have 19,800 lf less 48” pipe and 19,800 lf more 42” pipe. How will this be paid for using the items in the bid schedule? ”

Response: See the updated Section B Price Schedules in this amendment for simplified Line Pipe and Sectionalizing Valve CLINs that will be independent of pipe material or pipe diameter. The Contractor will still need to meet the pressure class requirements as shown on the Drawings and the transitions from 48” to 42” diameter for the various pipe materials as shown on drawing 1695-D-60306, but the CLINs for Line Pipe and Sectionalizing Valves has been simplified to allow for an average unit price based on the Contractor’s selection of pipe material(s). Note that the K class pressure pipe, which is required at steep slopes and at specific wash crossings in the Drawings and Specifications, is designated as a Special Design, and further defined as restrained joint metallic pipe (butt-welded steel or restrained joint ductile iron) per the revised section 33 11 10 - Pipeline General Requirements. Due to the Special Design requirement, this pipe is listed as a separate CLIN (K Class Line Pipe) in the revised Price Schedules in this amendment.

6) Question: “Plans: Pipe designation and Bid Schedule. On Reach 9 is the bid schedule set up using all steel pipe so that the symbol pipe bid quantities shown reflect 48” steel to station 90879+00 and 42” steel for the remainder of the Reach? If this is so but you bid one of the other options how do you bid?

If using all steel change from 48” to 42” at Station 90879+00.

If using steel 48” change to 48” PVC at station 90523+00 and change from 48” PVC to 42” PVC at station 90879+00?

If using steel 48” change to 48” HDPE at station 90879+00 and continue to the end with 48” HDPE?

If using all ductile iron change from 48” DI to 42” DI at station 90681+50.

If using DI 48” change to 48” PVC at station 90523+00 and from 48” PVC to 42” PVC at sta. 90810+00?

If using DI 48” change to 48” HDPE at station 90879+00 and continue to the end with 48” HDPE.

If using fiberglass change from 48” to 42” at 90577+00. No option for mixing and matching fiberglass?”

Response: See the updated Section B Price Schedules in this amendment for simplified Line Pipe and Sectionalizing Valve CLINs that will be independent of pipe material or pipe diameter. The Contractor will still need to meet the pressure class requirements as shown on the Drawings and the transitions from 48” to 42” diameter for the various pipe materials as shown on drawing 1695-D-60306, but the CLINs for Line Pipe and Sectionalizing Valves has been simplified to allow for an average unit price based on the Contractor’s selection of pipe material(s). Note that the K class pressure pipe, which is required at steep slopes and at specific wash crossings in the Drawings and Specifications, is designated as a Special Design, and further defined as restrained joint metallic pipe (butt-welded steel or restrained joint ductile iron) per the revised section 33 11 10 - Pipeline General Requirements. Due to the Special Design requirement, this pipe is listed as a separate CLIN (K Class Line Pipe) in the revised Price Schedules in this amendment.

1) Question: “While driving the alignment, I noticed a lot of stakes painted red with markings that did not seem to be related to the water line alignment. Are there plans for a new or additional power line that would be in or close to the water line ROW? They could be bureau reference points, they were labeled NTA or NUTA with coordinates.”

Response: Those stakes are preliminary alignment markings for NTUA’s proposed 115 kV electrical transmission line between Cudei Substation and the Coal Mine Substation near Tohatchi. Their schedule is still being finalized, but construction is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2018 and be completed by the end of 2019. The Government’s ROW for this Project is separate and outside of the future NTUA electrical transmission ROW. Contact NTUA for further details.

2) Question: “Section 01 51 00-2 1.04 – When is water going to be available at the tie in point at Twin Lakes on Reach 11?

a) When will this line be in service?”

Response: Contact NTUA or City of Gallup in accordance with Section 01 51 00 – Temporary Utilities for construction water. The contractor may deliver purchased water by gravity through previously completed Reaches of NGWSP, provided requirements of this section are met. The Temporary Water Line shown on drawing 1695-D-60308 is to be constructed to convey water from Reach 11 to Reach 10. Coordinate use of the temporary water line shown on drawing 1695-D-60308 with COR.

3) Question: “Section 01 51 00- Temporary Utilities. Is a field office required for the jobsite?”

Response: No, provided the Contract’s Specification requirements are met, it’s the Contractor’s discretion where the construction is managed from.

4) Question: “Section 31 02 10- Water for dust abatement. Is the water for dust palliative paid for under the bid item for ‘Water for Dust Abatement’?”

Response: No, water for Dust Palliative is incidental to the CLIN for Dust Palliative. The Water for Dust Abatement CLIN is a separate bid item to mitigate airborne dust on as-needed basis within the Contractor’s active work area, except as noted in article 3.01.F of section 31 02 10 – Water for Dust Abatement.

1) Question: “Reference Section L.14 - Notice of Proposed Partnering – Bureau of Reclamation.

The Bureau proposes to mutually form a voluntary Partnering arrangement with the Contractor.

a) Can the BOR specify an allowance to be included to a specific CLIN for Contractor’s cost associated with this this process?

Response: Section L.14 – Notice of Proposed Partnering refers to a proactive approach to dispute resolution and is a voluntary method should the Contractor agree to form a Partnering agreement with Reclamation. It is currently not a condition of the contract and therefore cost does not need to be allocated for it. Should the Contractor decide to partner with the Government, the contract will be modified to add the Contractor’s share of conducting the Partnering agreement.

b) If the BOR cannot provide an allowance, could the BOR please quantify the effort that will be required by the contractors in this process?”

Response: See response to a) above.

2) Question: “Reference Specifications Section 26 42 21 – Cathodic Protection and Corrosion Monitoring System and Drawing No.1695-D-60360 - Cathodic Protection Deep Well Anode Bed.

The Contract Specifications specify both the requirement and quantity of Impressed Current Anode Beds required for the overall project (subject to change based upon the Contractor’s selection of Pipeline Materials).

Impressed Current Anode Systems require an A/C electrical power source to be operational.

The above referenced Contract Drawing Detail depicts the requirement for an Electrical Circuit Box and Power Meter (as required).

Neither the Contract Specifications, nor Drawings specify, depict, or otherwise discuss the Project source(s) or location(s) of existing A/C Utility Power that will be required to energize and complete the impressed current cathodic protection systems.

Questions:

a) Has the Bureau of Reclamation made provisions or coordinated the source and availability of an A/C electrical power source for the Impressed Current Systems?

Response: The Government will provide permanent power to rectifiers located in Table 26 42 10A - Impressed Current Anode, which is dependent on the Contractor’s cathodic protection (CP) system design. No permanent power is available at this time. Once the Contractor’s CP system is designed, the Government will design a permanent power supply to the Contractor’s design location for each rectifier. The Contractor needs to include appropriate resources and costs in their bid to supply all construction or temporary power sources for all testing and other uses required by the Specifications through final acceptance of the contract.

b) Who is responsible (Contractor or Bureau of Reclamation) to identify, coordinate and pay for the Utility Power fee(s) necessary to complete the Impressed Current Cathodic Protection System installations?

Response: See to response to question a) above.

c) Who is responsible (Contractor or Bureau of Reclamation) for any permits or fees that may be required to secure additional utility (overhead or underground) right-of-way to allow for the installation of A/C utility power to each Impressed Current System?

Response: See to response to question a) above.

d) Would the Bureau of Reclamation allow for the consideration of alternative A/C power sources, (e.g. Solar), within the pipeline right-of-way provide the necessary A/C electrical power for the impressed current cathodic protection systems?”

Response: See to response to question a) above.

3) Question: “Reference Specifications Section 01 35 22 – First Aid, Part 1.03 – Service

Line A requires first aid and medical facilities to be in accordance with Section 5 of the Reclamation Safety and Health Standards (RSHS). Section 5.2.1.a of the RSHS requires a registered nurse (RN), an emergency medical technician (EMT), or a paramedic must be on duty at the on-site first aid station, except when on emergency call.

Question: Please confirm if this requirement applies to this project. ”

Response: The requirement in article 5.2.1 in section 5 – Medical Service and First Aid of the RSHS applies to facility locations or construction sites with more than 99 employees during a single shift. If less than 99 employees are planned to be on-site, then comply with the other requirements of section 5 of the RSHS for providing readily available emergency medical services. Additionally, see article 1.04.B – RSN 01 35 22-1, Medical Facilities Plan for requirements for describing the Contractor’s plan for providing medical service and first aid to employees, subcontractor employees, Government employees, and public.

4) Question: “Reference contract drawings 1695-D-60321 “blowoff sections and details”, 1695-D-60322 “manhole with blowoff”, 40-D-60002 “typical guard posts”

The two types of blowoffs on the project do not indicate the need for guard post like the Air Valve locations.

Question: Please confirm that no guard posts are required at these locations. ”

Response: Four guard posts are required at both types of blowoffs as indicated in the Plan view that was added by Amendment #4 (and previously indicated in the Transverse Section) on drawing 1695-D-60321 and the Transverse Section on drawing 1695-D-60322.

5) Question: “Reference contract drawing 1695-D-60321 “blowoff sections and details”.

The contract drawing do not show the need for spray on insulation inside of the blowoff precast boxes that are 60 X 36 X 24. There would only be about one vertical foot to spray on the inside wall as well as the underside of the lid.

Questions:

a) Please confirm that no insulation is needed at these locations.

Response: Confirmed, no insulation is required for the blowoff precast boxes (60”x36”x24”) since all of the water should be drained out of the exposed section of pipe.

b) Are insulting jackets required on the small section of pipe that will be sticking up in the precast boxes?”

Response: Insulating jackets are not required on the small section of pipe in the precast boxes for blowoffs.

6) Question: “Reference Solicitation, Offer, and Award Form 1442

Question: Could the BOR please provide the “CODE” and “FACILITY CODE” requested at box 14?”

Response: Offerors do not need to fill out the “CODE” and “FACILITY CODE” portion of box 14; that will be completed by the CO at the time of award.

7) Question: “Reference Amendment No 3 Box 14, Item 3

Amendment makes reference to a revised Specification Section 33 05 21 – Bored Utility and Road Crossing in Attachment 3. This specification section is not included with the attachment.

Question: If there are revisions to section 33 05 21, could the BOR please provide an updated copy?”

Response: The revised specification was inadvertently omitted from Amendment #3, but is now included in Amendment #4.

8) Question: “Reference Specifications Section 33 11 10 – Pipeline General Requirements.

These specifications require the contractor to flush the new pipelines at least three time the pipeline volume (~12,500,000 gal per volume) and then to refill the pipeline to perform a 96-hour hydro test. Upon successful completion of the pipeline hydro test, the pipeline is then to be pumped dry.

Questions:

a) Is OR will potable water be available at reach 12a?

b) If Potable water is available at reach 12a, will the contract be granted access to it?

c) If the Contractor is granted access to potable water at reach 12a, what is the price per 1000 gallon to the Contractor to use the water?

d) Are there any start-up cost associated with making potable water accessible to the contract at Reach 12a that will be passed onto the Contractors?

e) If potable water will be made available to the Contractor at Reach 12a, what date will it be available?”

Response: Answers to a, b, c, d, and e: Contact NTUA or City of Gallup in accordance with Section 01 51 00 – Temporary Utilities for construction water. The contractor may deliver purchased water by gravity through previously completed Reaches of NGWSP, provided requirements of this section are met. The Temporary Water Line shown on drawing 1695-D-60308 is to be constructed to convey water from Reach 11 to Reach 10. Coordinate use of the temporary water line shown on drawing 1695-D-60308 with COR.

1) Question: “Section F – Deliveries or Performance, F.3, 52.211-18 Variation in Estimated Quantity

a) Under Drawing 1695-D-60306, Line Pipe Material and Diameter Table, the diameter of the pipe and sectionalizing valve assemblies will differ depending on the pipe materials selected. The variance from the quantities indicated on Price Schedule 1 (Reach 9) will be significant and will well exceed the +/- 15% threshold for equitable adjustment. As these variances are readily knowable prior to bid, unit pricing of the bid items have the potential to be deliberately unbalanced. In the interest of transparency, can price schedules for Reach 9 be reissued reflecting the diameter combinations allowed under Drawing 1695-D-60306?”

Response: See the updated Section B Price Schedules in this amendment for simplified Line Pipe and Sectionalizing Valve CLINs that will be independent of pipe material or pipe diameter. The Contractor will still need to meet the pressure class requirements as shown on the Drawings and the transitions from 48” to 42” diameter for the various pipe materials as shown on drawing 1695-D-60306, but the CLINs for Line Pipe and Sectionalizing Valves has been simplified to allow for an average unit price based on the Contractor’s selection of pipe material(s). Note that the K class pressure pipe, which is required at steep slopes and at specific wash crossings in the Drawings and Specifications, is designated as a Special Design, and further defined as restrained joint metallic pipe (butt-welded steel or restrained joint ductile iron) per the revised section 33 11 10 - Pipeline General Requirements. Due to the Special Design requirement, this pipe is listed as a separate CLIN (K Class Line Pipe) in the revised Price Schedules in this amendment.

2) Question: “Section L – Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors or Respondents, L.11, Technical Proposal

a) Is the Contractor required to identify the pipe material to be used under Specification Section 33 11 10, 2.01, B, 1 – 3?

Response: No, however the Contractor is required to demonstrate prior experience under section L.11 Technical Proposal in at least 1 of the pipe materials listed under Specification Section 33 11 10 for the similar pipe diameters specified under this solicitation.

b) The installation requirements for the (5) allowable pipe options under Specification Section 33 11 10 are significantly different even if diameters are comparable. In defining a minimum acceptability standard, the phrase “similar in scope, complexity, and magnitude” is not well defined. Is the Contractor required to demonstrate specific prior experience for the pipe material proposed?

Response: No, however the Contractor is required to demonstrate prior experience under section L.11 Technical Proposal in at least 1 of the pipe materials listed under Specification Section 33 11 10 for the similar pipe diameters specified under this solicitation.

c) Do key personal have to have to have specific prior experience installing the pipe material proposed?”

Response: No, however the Contractor is required to demonstrate prior experience for key personnel under section L.11 Technical Proposal in at least 1 of the pipe materials listed under Specification Section 33 11 10 for the similar pipe diameters specified under this solicitation. Specific qualifications are required in Section 33 11 10, article 1.06 C.

3) Question: “Section L - Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors or Respondents, L.12 Pricing Proposal Instructions:

a) Under ( c) (3), the actual pipe quantities will vary depending on the pipe materials selected under Drawing 1695-D-60306. The sum of the contract line items will result in a proposed price that does not reflect what will actually be payable under an eventual contract. In absence of re-issuing a pipe material specific price schedule, how will the quantity differences due to pipe material diameters be evaluated for purposes of determining total price?

Response: See the updated Section B Price Schedules in this amendment for simplified Line Pipe and Sectionalizing Valve CLINs that will be independent of pipe material or pipe diameter. The Contractor will still need to meet the pressure class requirements as shown on the Drawings and the transitions from 48” to 42” diameter for the various pipe materials as shown on drawing 1695-D-60306, but the CLINs for Line Pipe and Sectionalizing Valves has been simplified to allow for an average unit price based on the Contractor’s selection of pipe material(s). Note that the K class pressure pipe, which is required at steep slopes and at specific wash crossings in the Drawings and Specifications, is designated as a Special Design, and further defined as restrained joint metallic pipe (butt-welded steel or restrained joint ductile iron) per the revised section 33 11 10 - Pipeline General Requirements. Due to the Special Design requirement, this pipe is listed as a separate CLIN (K Class Line Pipe) in the revised Price Schedules in this amendment.

b) Under (g), are alternate technical proposals permissible?”

Response: No

4) Question: “Specification 09 96 20 - 18, Coatings, Tabulation No. 05 Materials:

· The Corropipe II TX-15 material is no longer manufactured and Protec II is no longer commercially supported. We request that more commonly available polyurethane materials be allowed such as LifeLast, Valspar and Carboline.”

Response: The specific coating type has been removed. Refer to modified section 09 96 20 – Coatings in this amendment.

5) Question: “Specification 33 11 12 – 3, 2.02 Fittings, B. Minimum steel wall thickness: 0.25 inches:

a) For the steel pipe option, outlet reinforcement can be designed under AWWA M-11 such that the wall thickness of the steel mainline cylinder does not need to be arbitrarily set at a 0.250-inch wall minimum. Note 7, Drawing 1695-D-60316 implies that this is already assumed, reflecting standard industry practice. Details such as 40-D-61367 also are not based on a minimum 0.250-inch cylinder thickness. Can outlets for the steel pipe option be designed and provided with collar reinforcement that assumes the steel thickness of the adjoining line pipe?

Response: See the revised section 33 11 12 – Steel Line Pipe Specification, article 3.02 originally distributed in Amendment #3 and included again with the revisions in Amendment #5.

b) AWWA M-11 assumes that the line pipe steel cylinder thickness is suitable for fabricated mitered elbows up to 2.5D. Because increased wall thickness is not generally necessary for in-line elbows, standard industry practice is to fabricate elbows into steel line pipe sections, which is more cost efficient in terms of both manufacture and installation. Can in-line elbow design for the steel pipe option assume the steel thickness of the adjoining line pipe as the minimum?”

Response: See the revised section 33 11 12 – Steel Line Pipe Requirements, article 3.02 originally distributed in Amendment #3 and included again with the revisions in Amendment #5.

6) Question: “Specification 33 11 12 – 4, 2.02 Fittings, G. Cement-Mortar Lining for Specials and Bends Larger than 24-inches:

a) Wire fabric is only required under AWWA C205 if exposed surface area exceeds a 12 – inch minimum. As allowed by AWWA C205, industry practice is to centrifugally apply cement mortar lining to standard pipe sections which can then be fabricated into individual fittings leaving a minimal repair area. We request that the requirement for wire fabric be per AWWA C205.

Response: Agreed. Section 33 11 12 – Steel Line Pipe has been revised in this amendment in accordance with AWWA C205.

b) Where centrifugally applied lining is incorporated into fitting manufacture, the thickness will be per AWWA C205 (½ inch). To accommodate a thicker lining, the OD of the steel pipe cylinder for elbows will need to be increased which adds cost and complexity if the line pipe is steel as well. We request that lining thickness be per AWWA C205 where centrifugally applied lining is utilized for the steel line pipe option.

Response: Agreed. Section 33 11 12 – Steel Line Pipe has been revised in this amendment in accordance with AWWA C205.

c) The requirement for pneumatic placement of cement mortar lining for fittings is unnecessary and we request it be removed, deferring instead to AWWA C205 requirements. Steel trowel placement is sufficient for most shop and field applications.

Response: Response: See the revised section 33 11 12 – Steel Line Pipe, article 3.02.G originally distributed in Amendment #3 and included again with the revisions in Amendment #5.

7) Question: “Specification 33 11 12 – 4, 2.02 Fittings, I. Miter Bends:

Steel sleeve couplings and articulating pipe sections are shown on Drawings 1695-D-60315 and 1695-D-60316 as part of the miter bend/thrust block details. For the steel pipe option, if pipe joints are welded at miters in lieu of concrete encasement, please confirm that these details do not apply.

Response: Confirmed. If restrained pipe joints (e.g. welded steel joints) are used for thrust restraint at miter bends, the steel sleeve coupling and articulating pipe sections are not required.

8) Question: “Specification 33 21 95-4, 2.01 Equipment, A. Steel Plate:

Is steel sheet or coil as referenced in 33 11 12 – 3, 2.01 Steel Line Pipe, A, 2 , a, 2) permissible for fittings, the same as used for steel line pipe? Having two separate steel material requirements for steel line pipe and fittings is unnecessary.”

Response: The steel products listed in section 33 11 12 – Steel Line Pipe, article 2.01, can be used for the 42-inch and 48-inch diameter line pipe fittings for miter bends, tapers, and tees.

9) Question: “Drawing 1695-D-60306, Line Pipe Material and Diameter Table

a) A significant disparity exists in pipe material footage by diameter. Clearly certain assumptions were made about the hydraulic characteristics of each allowed pipe material to develop the diameter differences. For any given pipe material/diameter combination, there may be more cost efficient options than what are indicated on the table. The footnote states that other pipe material type combinations can be submitted for approval. In order to develop possible alternatives, can the assumed IDs and friction factors be provided for all the allowed pipe materials?

Response: No, comply with the station and diameter transitions shown on drawing 1695-D-60306.

b) In lieu of the above, can the finished inside diameter of the steel pipe option be furnished to that of Ductile Iron Pipe for same nominal diameter designations, and, in doing so, use the same station for changing between 48 and 42 inch diameter?”

Response: Yes, the steel line pipe diameter can change at the same station as ductile iron as long as the finished inside diameter of the cement mortar lining is equal to or greater than the ductile iron pipe based in section 33 11 13 – Ductile Iron Pipe.

10) Question: “Drawing 1695-D-60314

a) As a longstanding USBR practice, it is typical to have very similar if not identical trench details for all flexible pipe materials used in pressurized systems. In review of the USBR M25 –“Method of Prediction of Flexible Pipe Deflection” section 3.5 it states “the pipe stiffness factor has very little influence on the pipe deflection because the soil stiffness factor is much greater.” Nevertheless, the trench details and side clearance table on 1695-D-60314 require a much wider trench for steel pipe than for the DIP, Fiberglass, PVC and HDPE, putting the steel pipe option at a significant cost disadvantage. There is no basis under which pipe stiffness values vary enough to justify the disparity in trench designs. We respectfully request that one trench detail per Height of Cover be used for all flexible pipe materials on the project. In support of this request we provide the following:

Response: USBR M25 - “Method of Flexible Pipe Deflection” section 3.5 states “In most cases, the pipe stiffness factor has …” which is true for pipes with thin walls. For thicker-walled-pipe, the pipe stiffness has more influence on the amount of pipe deflection and therefore, less side support from the trench is required.

b) All pipe has clsm bedding to .25D (60 degree bedding angle) of the pipe. This will make flexible pipe cylinder much stiffer than reflected by pipe stiffness calculation used in M25. Furthermore, M25 does not account for stiffer material in the haunches.

Response: Flexible pipe is strengthened by the soil support between 0.25 O.D. and 0.7 O.D. where O.D. is the outside diameter.

c) All plastic pipe stiffness are rated at room temperature. During typical New Mexico hot and sunny days, when temperatures are above 73F, the plastic pipe stiffness will be reduced and can easily be in excess of 25%. Steel pipe stiffness is not affected by temperature.

Response: The pipe is buried in the ground when the soil load is applied. The ground temperature is below 73 degrees at the depth the pipe is buried.

d) AWWA Manual M25 appears to be focused on deflection predictions for gravity flow or low head pressure pipe. In a high pressure system the internal pressure far exceeds the external loading from soil prism, live loads, settling etc. Initial deflection prior to filling the line should be the focus as once line is filled deflection is no longer an issue. Initial deflection expectations are clear for all products.

Response: The pipeline may be empty for an extended period of time, and therefore will need to resist outside forces without exceeding maximum deflection requirement well beyond the initial pressure testing. The maximum load on the pipe is usually reached in about 3 to 6 months following final backfill.

e) High pressure lines will not see longer term deflection lag or need Time-lag factor loadings added to the deflection prediction calculations. If there are any future settlements in the trench section the internal pressure will offset these forces.

Response: The pipeline may be empty for an extended period of time, and therefore will need to resist outside forces without exceeding maximum deflection requirement well beyond the initial pressure testing. The maximum load on the pipe is usually reached in about 3 to 6 months following final backfill.

f) Current M25 deflection prediction is conservative with high factors of safety when consider above items.

Response: The current M25 deflection prediction provides the appropriate factors of safety.

g) Cost of additional trench width excavation and clsm is not sustainable for steel pipe unless all flexible pipes use the same trench details.

Response: Different flexible pipe types have different wall thicknesses and therefore different pipe stiffness values. The pipe trench widths for the different flexible pipe types were based on the same design equations.

h) The Trench for Paylines Only detail applies to all types of pipe, but in actuality very different amounts of excavation, bedding, embedment and backfill will be required depending on the pipe material. If a universal trench design is not going to be utilized, can the paylines be modified to reflect the actual trench details and side clearance table?”

Response: No. Construction methods, field conditions and outside pipe diameters control the actual pipe trench geometry. The side clearance tables and specifications provide minimum requirements for pipe trench construction. In addition, as per Section 33 11 10 – Pipeline General Requirements, article 3.01D, the pipe is to be installed based on these specifications or pipe manufacturer’s recommendations, whichever is more stringent.

11) Question: “Drawing 1695-D-60317:

a) In lieu of the indicated “W” dimension, should restrained length be calculated using the design parameters included in drawing?

Response: The “W” dimension was calculated based on Reclamation’s design engineer’s equations and depth of cover in the table. The 3.5 feet cover in the design parameters is a minimum and not the cover depth used for the calculations.

b) Note 2 on the drawing directs back to the pipe specifications concerning limitations to “W” lengths in lieu of concrete thrust restraint. There are no such “W” references in either steel Specifications 33 11 12 or 33 21 95. Are there any limitations to “W” lengths for the steel pipe option beyond what is indicated on the drawing?”

Response: No, however, there is a limitation for the steel line pipe restrained joints in article 3.01B where double lap joints are required for the restrained joints for miter bends with deflection angles greater the 30 degrees, unless butt welded joints are required.

1) We have a question regarding the steel pipe specification for the above referenced project. Please refer to Section 2.02 Fittings, paragraph G.3:

This paragraph references a lining thickness of 3/4-inch for fittings. What is the lining thickness for standard lengths of steel pipe? Does this lining thickness apply also to standard lengths of steel pipe?

Please clarify if the lining should be ½-inch or ¾-inch for both steel pipe and steel pipe fittings.

The industry standard (AWWA C205-12) lining thickness for 48” and 42” steel pipe and steel fittings is ½-inch.

Excerpt from AWWA C205-12 Table 1 Cement-mortar-lining thickness Nominal Pipe Size Nominal Lining Thickness Tolerance

Response: See the revised section 33 11 12 – Steel Line Pipe Specification, article 3.02 originally distributed in Amendment #3 and included again with the revisions in Amendment #5. Both the steel line pipe and steel fittings shall meet AWWA C205 for cement-mortar-lining thickness, which is ½-inch for these diameters.

1) Please consider the following request for modifications and question related to your project specification Section 33 11 19 for the above reference project:

No.

Part/Sub- part

Requirement

Proposed Modification

Comments

ISO 8483 Glass reinforced thermosetting plastics (GRP) pipes and fittings- Test Methods to prove the design of bolted flange joints The fiberglass pipe systems targeting the water market, and not the oil and gas industries, do not follow this standard but AWWA C950.

ISO 8483 is specifically addressed to fiberglass flanges and it is in line with AWWA 950.

Response: AWWA C950 is for fiberglass pipe and does not cover fiberglass fittings. There is no AWWA or ASTM standard for fiberglass fittings for 42-inch and 48-inch size pipe. Since oil and gas standards meet or exceed water standards for pipe and fittings, the Government has adopted ISO 14692 to provide the testing requirements for fittings. Within this standard, Table 1 lists typical current and potential fiberglass applications, which includes potable water. Additionally, section 11.3.4 of the ISO 14692 standard has a requirement for Potable Water Approval Certificates to be provided. Therefore, ISO 14692 is suitable for potable water applications for 42- and 48- inch pipe fitting sizes.

b. Section 1.4 Product…….

c. Section 11.5 Installation…..

d. Section 11.6.1 Published….

Replace by:

Flanges: ISO 8483 with English unit listed ISO 8483 is specifically addressed to fiberglass flanges and it is in line with AWWA 950.

Response: FRP Flange Fittings are to be tested in accordance with ISO 14692.

Inside Diameters: Equal to or larger than the nominal diameter called out on drawings.

Most fiberglass pipes in the US water market are manufactured based on table 4 “Outside Diameter (OD) series pipe with cast- iron (ductile-iron) pipe equivalent OD’s” of AWWA C950. Still, their ID’s shall be equal or larger than what’s required by the project.

Response: Agreed. Specification Section 33 11 19, part 2.01.B.5 was modified accordingly in Amendment #4.

Allowed for joint restraint Fiberglass pipes, fittings and joints can be manufactured to exhibit the necessary axial tensile strength to take the tensions developed along the pipeline.

Response: Fiberglass restrained joints for thrust restraint are not allowed as per Section 33 11 19, part 2.02.B.

Fiberglass line pipe to metallic fitting: flange to flange or unrestrained fiberglass sleeve coupling Metallic pipes and fittings can be connected to the same fiberglass coupling used to connect the FRP pipes.

This addition is consistent with the details of the concrete blocks on contract drawings 1695-D-60315 and 1695-D-60316 showing an unrestrained sleeve for the connection to the fittings.

We are including an illustration of this connection.

Response: When concrete thrust blocks at miter bends are used, metallic pipe will need to be used through the transition sections as shown on the drawings (1695-D-60315 and 1695-D-60316) with steel sleeve couplings as specified in 33 21 95, Part 2, 2.01 L.

Test in accordance with ISO 14692 ….

Replace by:

Flanged Fiberglass Fittings: Test in accordance with ISO 8483 sections 7.3.

An alternate test method may be proposed by the Contractor for consideration by the Engineer.

ISO 8483 is specifically addressed to fiberglass flanges and it is in line with AWWA 950.

Response: AWWA C950 is for fiberglass pipe and does not cover fiberglass fittings. There is no AWWA or ASTM standard for fiberglass fittings for 42-inch and 48-inch size pipe. Since oil and gas standards meet or exceed water standards for pipe and fittings, the Government has adopted ISO 14692 to provide the testing requirements for fittings. Within this standard, Table 1 lists typical current and potential fiberglass applications, which includes potable water. Additionally, section 11.3.4 of the ISO 14692 standard has a requirement for Potable Water Approval Certificates to be provided. Therefore, ISO 14692 is suitable for potable water applications for 42- and 48- inch pipe fitting sizes.

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