Baler_Questions_and_Answers_Set_1.doc

Baler Questions and Answers Set 1

1) The existing 400amp 480vac MDP has conduits that have been cut off and the holes not properly sealed. This service point needs to be inspected for viability. Adding a 200 amp load to a distribution center that is already heavily loaded and could be compromised by the elements could cause a failure.

1a) Government personnel will correct the cut off conduits and mark all spare breakers. The panel is not heavily loaded, as most of the breakers are no longer in use.

2) The pathway to get the conduit and conductors to the Baler building has seen better days. Adding that much extra weight could compromise the existing structure. If we went with EMT with rain tight fittings that would cut the weight down substantially and with some additional bracing the pathway could remain viable.

2a) EMT with rain tight fitting is acceptable and THW wire for wet areas is preferred.

3) I have heard the company that was spect for the Baler is experiencing financial difficulties. That could present a maintence challenge down the road getting parts if they were to go out of business.

3a) Not a concern or go with a different manufacturer.

4) There are items that are not in the specs which would be HIGHLY recommended, like an oil tank heater. Also I am not comfortable with remote operation. I believe that could cause some real safety issues.

4a) A oil tank heater can be provided and the remote operation is not a safety concern.

5) The site walk revealed that the existing Baler is to remain until the new one is up and running. That is contrary to the SOW. Is the existing Baler going to be dealt with in another contact or is this contact going to be amended?

5a) The existing Baler shall be removed and set out of the contractor’s way upon commencement of work.

6) This SOW requires a pit for the conveyor that will be exposed to the elements. That will require a sump pump which will more than likely be pumping liquids that could very well be contaminated. The discharge will need to go to a proper storage unit for proper disposal.

6a) The plan shows a dry sump! No sump pump is required and SIAD shall pump out pit whenever necessary.

7) The pit could be as much as 4' deep. There will need to be a safety railing and a ladder into the pit to service the belt roller and tensioner plus the sump pump when needed.

7a) See the plan for pit details.

8) The building has existing electrical distribution so in the likelihood that additional electrical needs are to be met like the sump pump or the tank heater, but I think it would be wiser and SAFER to have the Baler and ALL it's associated components feed from one source. A single disconnect will not provide additional distribution unless the Baler control package provides for additional loads. There also will be a need for disconnects for any remote loads that will need service. Shutting off the disconnect, killing power to everything could hamper troubleshooting procedures.

8a) The unit should come with a factory control panel as per the manufacturer recommendation and they have stated only a disconnect is needed.

9. Where does the existing equipment need to be moved when removed (Excel EX63 baler and Above Ground Model 4813 Conveyor)?

9a. The existing Baler shall be removed and set out of the contractor’s way upon commencement of work.

10. Will you trade-in the existing baler and conveyor against the new equipment?

10a. NO

11. Vendor recommends an in tank oil heater for this application- do you concur?

11a. Yes

12. There is no conveyor called out in the specifications:

Conveyor options:

48" wide x300" long slider bed conveyor in Pit w/flashing 48" wide 6: pitch medium duty steel belt conveyor (with pit flashing) upper horizontal and lower horizontal 5. There isn't any specs for a sump and pump?

If a sump is required where do they need to pump the water to?

If pit gets oil or other contaminants???

12a. No sump pump. See plan. Clarification on baler specifications to follow.

13. What is the existing concrete thickness?

13a. Speculate 4” to 6”.