ANSWERS_TO_CONTRACTOR_QUESTIONS.pdf

ANSWERS TO CONTRACTOR QUESTIONS

1. Question: The specified rod-type anodes are not available from a North American manufacturer.

The issue is magnesium – which is no longer cast for custom anodes on this continent (or at least – in the US or Canada – not sure on Mexico). Aluminum-alloy anodes for protection of steel in freshwater environments are available in custom configurations. Is it acceptable to substitute an aluminum alloy if the performance specifications can be met (per Section 4.6)? If magnesium is absolutely required – it could impact the delivery schedule because the anodes will have to be custom ordered then imported – most likely from Asia.

Answer: As long as there are no performance differences and they are safe to the environment they can be submitted for review/approval. It is on the contractor to submit the characteristics of their proposed products such that we can review to determine merit.

2. Question: Can the Corps verify the weight of each mooring bitt for transportation calculations? We estimate that each bitt weighs 5,000 lbs. or less, which would allow us to transport two at a time with a standard 14K flatbed trailer.

Answer: 6,500 lbs.

3. Question: The solicitation states that loading and unloading of the mooring bitts will be done in sets of two. Will the government provide assistance and equipment for loading and unloading on the contractor’s truck? We are a fabricator and do not provide site work. If the government was to unload and load the contractor’s truck it would bring the cost down.

Answer: The government will provide crane support for loading and unloading from the contractor’s truck. This has been added to the PWS in this amendment - annotated in red.

4. Question: Are any of the bitts assessable to be viewed?

Answer: The floating mooring bits can be viewed but they are not in an area open to the public. Most are in service in the navigation lock and one is out of service sitting by the fish ladder. A site visit was held.

5. Question: Are there any pictures of the existing bitts that can be shared?

Answer: Attached 4 pictures. If more is needed, please advise.

6) Question: AWS D1.1 is identified as the welding standard - but can we verify if certified welders are required? Welding submittals did not specify credential submittal.

Answer: Welders should be certified to perform the weld procedure. Welding procedures for structural steel shall be qualified in accordance with AWS D.1.1.

7) Question: Speaking of submittals - section 7 is limited to cut/specification sheets and warranty.

Although most work is going to be offsite - do we need a QA/QC plan?

Answer: Yes, QA/QC will be required. Coordination will need to be made such that the Government QA can support inspection. The PWS requires two weeks' notice.

8) Question: The government is going to need to inspect the restoration work prior to mooring bitts leaving our shop. Our closest shop is Vancouver, WA. Does the distance pose a problem?

Answer: No, The government will just need adequate notification for preparation of travel orders.

Minimum time needed will be two weeks as defined in the PWS.

9) Question: Regarding the inspections - will the government want to inspect surfaces prior to repair or painting, or only the finished product?

Answer: SOW section - "5.2 Test, Inspections, and Verifications. The floating mooring bitts shall not be shipped from the Contractor’s shop until the testing has been approved. The Contracting Officer Representative shall inspect the floating mooring bitts at the Contractor shop prior to painting and shipping. Please notify the Contracting Officer Representative at least 2 weeks in advance prior to the shop testing / inspection." - The original PWS said Contracting Officer but has been changed in this amendment to state Contracting Officer Representative – annotated in red.