Request for Information PAO V2.pdf

Request for Information (RFI) - Final Version with Reference

SE Functional Analysis: PAO Liquid Coolant Cart

1.0 Introduction and Purpose

The Department of War is issuing this Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential sources and solutions for a Polyalphaolefin (PAO) Liquid Coolant Cart. This cart is required to support ground maintenance operations for the F-22 aircraft at the organizational on-equipment level. The purpose of this RFI is to gather information on commercially available or near-production-ready systems that meet the requirements outlined in this document.

2.0 Background

A requirement exists to cool, clean, and recirculate PAO liquid coolant for the F-22 aircraft.

This capability is necessary when avionic systems are operated on the ground, and the aircraft's Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) cannot be operated. The desired solution must be a robust, mobile unit capable of operating in a wide range of environmental conditions.

The Department of War has identified the Model LCU-050, manufactured by the TLD Group, as an example of a system that may meet the general requirements. This RFI is intended to survey the market for this and other viable solutions.

3.0 Requirements

The proposed solution must meet the following mandatory requirements:

3.1 Functional Requirements

• Cool, clean, and recirculate PAO liquid coolant.

• Must be compatible with polyalphaolefin (PAO) coolant.

• Contain an 80-gallon reservoir to allow for the bleeding of air from the PAO fluid.

• Include a 5-micron filtration system to ensure the cleanliness of the recirculated PAO fluid.

• Include a "Service Mode" and "Reservoir fill mode" of operation.

• Incorporate a De-aeration system for the removal of air from the cooling liquid.

3.2 Operational Requirements

• Ambient Operating Temperature: 0 °F to 125 °F (-18 °C to 52 °C).

• Operating Environments: Certified per MIL-STD-810G.

• Runtime: Minimum 8-hour runtime at full load.

• Power Source: The unit must be a dual-powered system, capable of being powered by both an electric source and a diesel engine. Input power:

• 440-480V / 60Hz @ 120 Amps

• 380V / 50 Hz @ 152 Amps (Reduced Performance)

• Mobility:

• The unit must be trailer-mounted, capable of interfacing with a standard tow vehicle via a tow bar.

• Mobility qualified per AS8090.

• Features must include a hand brake, forklift pockets, Ackerman steering, and leaf spring suspension.

• Air transportable per MIL-STD-1791C, with tie-downs per MIL-STD-209K.

• Storage Conditions: -60 °F to 160 °F (-51 °C to 71 °C).

3.3 System and Interface Requirements

• Control System: PLC controlled with a color touch-screen user interface. The screen must be EMI-hardened and compatible with arctic gloves.

• Hoses: Include 50 ft (15.24 M) delivery hoses (couplers optional).

• Equipped with a mechanical refrigeration system to cool the PAO to the required outlet temperatures.

• Include all necessary hoses and quick-disconnect adapters to interface with the F- 22 liquid coolant system.

• Equipped with a 120VAC convenience receptacle.

• Equipped with both External and Internal lighting.

• Certifications and Compliance:

• EMI qualified to MIL-STD-461E.

• ATEX compliant – Zone 2.

• NFPA 70 NEC Compliant - Class I Div 2.

3.4 Performance Parameters

• Cooling Capacity: 0-50 kW (0-171 kBTU/HR) at rated flow and delivery temperature.

• Cooling Liquid Flow & Pressure: Variable up to a rated flow of 28 GPM @ 150 PSI (106 LPM @ 10.3 Bar).

• Cooling Liquid Delivery Temperature: Rated at 55 °F (13 °C) ± 5 °F (3°C); Variable between 40 °F and 70 °F (4.4 °C and 21.1 °C).

4.0 Information Requested

Interested parties are requested to provide the following information:

• Company Information: A brief overview of your company, including your CAGE code, and your experience in providing similar equipment to the Department of Defense or other government agencies.

• Proposed Solution: A detailed description of the proposed coolant cart, including technical specifications, datasheets, and any supporting documentation.

• Compliance Matrix: A matrix that clearly indicates how your proposed solution meets each of the requirements outlined in Section 3.0.

• Manufacturing and Delivery: Information on your manufacturing capabilities and estimated lead times for delivery after receipt of order.

• Existing Solutions: Information on whether the proposed solution is a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) product, a modified COTS product, or a new design.

5.0 Submission Instructions

Please submit your response to this RFI no later than 11 March 2026 NLT 4:00PM MST

Responses should be submitted electronically to james.recker@us.af.mil with the subject line "RFI Response: PAO Liquid Coolant Cart".