Request for Information - 70Z03826IK0000001.pdf

Request for Information (RFI)

70Z03826IK0000001

Dust Collection System Enhancements for a Paint Blasting Facility

1. Introduction:

The United States Coast Guard (USCG), Aviation Logistics Center (ALC) is requesting information from qualified vendors regarding solutions to enhance the performance and safety of existing paint blasting dust collection systems. The ALC operates a paint blasting facility utilizing Type VII corn starch media for aircraft surface preparation. This RFI concerns the monitoring and optimization of dust collection systems manufactured by Pauli System (RAM 11 and RAM 35B models). The ALC is seeking information pertaining to broken bag detection, discharge drum level monitoring, and automated filter pulsing systems specifically adapted for

Type VII corn starch abrasive blasting. This RFI is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to procure any products or services. Pictures of the current system can be found on attachment 1 of this RFI.

2. Background:

The ALC's abrasive blasting operation employs Type VII corn starch media to remove coatings and prepare aircraft surfaces. The dust collection systems are critical for maintaining a safe and compliant operating environment. Key areas of concern include:

• Broken Bag Detection System: Ensuring continuous and reliable monitoring of filter integrity to prevent emissions of potentially hazardous dust.

• Discharge Drum Monitoring System: Accurate monitoring of discharged drum fill levels to prevent overfilling. There are eight (8) drums tied to the system.

• Automatic Filter Pulsing System: Implementing automated filter pulsing to maintain optimal airflow, reduce differential pressure, and extend filter lifespan, minimizing manual intervention.

3. Scope of Information Requested:

This RFI seeks detailed technical and commercial information regarding the following areas:

3.1 Broken Bag Detection System:

The ALC requires a robust broken bag detection system to identify when blast media has migrated pass the filter system and entered the exhaust system to the environment. The system must be capable of reliably detecting corn starch dust breakthroughs and providing timely alerts to prevent environmental release.

• 3.1.1 Technical Specifications:

• Detection Principle: Describe the sensing technology employed (e.g., triboelectric, optical, differential pressure).

• Sensitivity and Accuracy: Specify the minimum detectable concentration of corn starch dust and the accuracy of the measurement.

• Response Time: Define the system's response time from detection of a filter breach to alarm activation.

• Material Compatibility: Detail the system's suitability for use with Type VII corn starch media, addressing potential issues such as static electricity generation, dust explosivity, and sensor fouling.

• Environmental Operating Range: Specify the allowable temperature and humidity ranges for reliable operation.

• Power Requirements: Provide voltage, current, and power consumption specifications.

• Communication Protocol: Identify the communication protocol supported for data transmission (e.g., Modbus RTU/TCP, Ethernet/IP, Profibus).

• Hazardous Location Certification: Indicate any certifications for hazardous location operation, conforming to relevant standards (e.g., ATEX, IECEx, NEC).

• Maintenance Schedule: Detail recommended maintenance procedures and frequency.

• Alarm Logic: Describe the alarm capabilities, including visual/audible alerts and potential integration with a programmable logic controller (PLC) for automated system shutdown.

• 3.1.2 System Cost, Integration & Support (Rough Order of Magnitude – ROM):

• Equipment Cost: Provide a ROM for the complete broken bag detection system, including all necessary sensors, control unit, and associated hardware.

• Installation Cost: Provide a ROM for installation services, including labor and materials.

• Installation Time: Estimate the timeframe required for system installation and commissioning.

• Integration Capabilities: Describe the system's ability to integrate with the existing Pauli System control architecture, including any required modifications or interface components.

• Warranty Information: Provide details on the system's warranty coverage.

• Technical Support & Training: Describe the availability of technical support services and training programs for operation and maintenance.

• Lead Time: Specify the estimated lead time for system delivery.

3.2 Discharge Drum Monitoring System:

The ALC requires a system to continuously monitor the fill level of the eight (8) discharge drums connected to the dust collection system. This system must provide accurate and reliable level measurements to prevent overfilling and optimizing waste management procedures.

• 3.2.1 Technical Specifications:

• Sensing Technology: Specify the technology used for level measurement (e.g., ultrasonic, radar, load cells, capacitive), including its operating principles.

• Measurement Range & Accuracy: Define the measurement range and accuracy of the level monitoring system.

• Drum Material Compatibility: Specify the types of drum materials compatible with the sensor (e.g., steel, polyethylene).

• Environmental Operating Range: Specify the allowable temperature and humidity ranges for reliable operation.

• Power Requirements: Provide voltage, current, and power consumption specifications.

• Communication Protocol: Identify the communication protocol supported for data transmission (e.g., Modbus RTU/TCP, Ethernet/IP, Profibus).

• Mounting Requirements: Describe the mounting options and requirements for the sensors.

• Physical Dimensions: Provide the dimensions and weight of the sensor and control unit.

• Maintenance Schedule: Detail recommended maintenance procedures and frequency.

• Alarm Logic: Describe the alarm capabilities, including visual/audible alerts and potential integration with a PLC for automated system shutdown.

• 3.2.2 System Cost, Integration & Support (Rough Order of Magnitude – ROM):

• Equipment Cost: Provide a ROM for the complete drum monitoring system, including all necessary sensors, control unit, and associated hardware.

• Installation Cost: Provide a ROM for installation services, including labor and materials.

• Installation Time: Estimate the timeframe required for system installation and commissioning.

• Integration Capabilities: Describe the system's ability to integrate with the existing Pauli System control architecture, including any required modifications or interface components.

• Warranty Information: Provide details on the system's warranty coverage.

• Technical Support & Training: Describe the availability of technical support services and training programs for operation and maintenance.

• Lead Time: Specify the estimated lead time for system delivery.

3.3 Automatic Filter Pulsing System:

The ALC requires an automated filter pulsing system to optimize filter performance, minimize dust emissions, and reduce manual intervention.

• 3.3.1 Technical Specifications:

• System Description: Provide a detailed description of the automatic filter pulsing system, including its operating principles, key components (e.g., solenoid valves, timers, pressure sensors), and control logic.

• Pressure Maintenance: Describe the system's ability to maintain consistent filter pressure and airflow. Specify the control algorithms used to regulate pulsing frequency and duration.

• Adjustability: Detail the adjustability of pulsing frequency, duration, and intensity to optimize performance based on Type VII corn starch media characteristics and operational parameters.

• Efficiency: Quantify the system's efficiency in removing dust and debris from the filters, potentially referencing industry-standard metrics (e.g., reduction in differential pressure).

• Compatibility: Describe the system's compatibility with the existing Pauli System dust collection units, specifying any required modifications to the dust collector or compressed air system. Include details on common connection types used. If incompatible, provide information on alternative dust collection systems offered.

• Remote Monitoring & Control: Indicate the availability of remote monitoring and control capabilities (e.g., via web interface, mobile app), including the data parameters that can be accessed and controlled remotely.

• Filter Compatibility: Specify the types of filter media compatible with the system

(e.g., pleated, bag, cartridge) and any limitations.

• 3.3.2 System Cost, Integration & Support (Rough Order of Magnitude – ROM):

• Equipment Cost: Provide a ROM for the complete automatic filter pulsing system, including all necessary components (e.g., control unit, solenoid valves, pressure sensors).

• Installation Cost: Provide a ROM for installation services, including labor and materials.

• Installation Time: Estimate the timeframe required for system installation and commissioning.

• Integration Capabilities: Describe the system's ability to integrate with the existing Pauli System control architecture, including any required modifications or interface components.

• Warranty Information: Provide details on the system's warranty coverage.

• Technical Support & Training: Describe the availability of technical support services and training programs for operation and maintenance.

• Lead Time: Specify the estimated lead time for system delivery.

3.4 Corn Starch Media Dust Considerations:

This section requires specific information regarding the suitability of the proposed solutions for environments with corn starch media dust.

• Static Electricity: Describe the proposed solution’s design features to mitigate static electricity buildup and potential discharge hazards.

• Dust Explosions: Detail any explosion-proof features or certifications associated with the proposed solutions. Explain the compliance with relevant safety standards for handling combustible dust (e.g., NFPA 652).

• Sensor Calibration: Address potential issues related to dust accumulation on sensors and provide recommendations for calibration adjustments and maintenance.

• Preventative Measures: Outline any necessary preventative measures to ensure safe and reliable operation in a corn starch dust environment.

• Media Compatibility: Indicate if the proposed solutions are compatible with other abrasive blasting media, such as Type VIII plastic media, and describe any required adjustments or modifications.

4. Vendor Information:

Please provide the following information about your company:

• Company Name

• Address

• Website

• Contact Person (Name, Title, Phone Number, Email Address)

• Business Size (e.g., Small, Medium, Large)

• Years in Business

• Brief description of your company and its capabilities, highlighting experience with abrasive blasting dust collection systems and combustible dust environments.

• Relevant Certifications or Qualifications (e.g., ISO 9001, ATEX, IECEx).

5. Response Format:

Please provide your response in a clear and concise manner. You may use a standard document format (e.g., Microsoft Word, PDF). Please clearly indicate which section of the RFI your response addresses.

6. Disclaimer:

This RFI is for informational purposes only and is not a request for proposal (RFP). The USCG is not obligated to award a contract based on the information received. All costs associated with responding to this RFI are the sole responsibility of the respondent.

7. Submission Instructions:

Please submit your response electronically by 4:00 PM EST on November 14, 2025 to Samuel

Ownley, Samuel.J.Ownley2@uscg.mil and William Morris, William.P.Morris@uscg.mil . Please clearly indicate "RFI Response – 70Z03826IK0000001" in the subject line of your email.

Thank you for your interest and participation. We look forward to reviewing your responses.

mailto:Samuel.J.Ownley2@uscg.mil mailto:William.P.Morris@uscg.mil