Cold Weather Aviation System_RFI QA_10 Jan 11.pdf

Cold Weather Aviation System (CWAS)

Boots, Gloves, Multi-Layer Garment

RFI Questions & Answers

1. Do the gloves need to be able to operate touch screens?

A: Yes, the individual wearing the gloves must be able to fully operate all of the buttons, screens, and cockpit instrumentation.

2. For the multi-layer garment, what layer is meant to provide the warmth as well as the weather protection?

A: So long as the product(s) can meet the specifications outlined in the RFI, it doesn't matter which layer provides the warmth.

3. Are the performance requirements for all three layers based on a system that is currently available commercially? If so, can you divulge the brand or line?

A: At this time, we are conducting market research to see if there are any commercially produced garments that can meet our performance requirements and we're hoping the RFI's will provide us with some industry feedback on what is available in the marketplace.

4. If this RFI goes to solicitation, will you specify a government owned design? Or, will you likely specify a COTS solution and ask for brand name or equal?

A: Currently, the AF is considering a government design for the multi-layer garment and COTs solution for the gloves/boots. Again, based on the information we receive from industry, this may change.

5. The requirements section on page 2 Item C states: “Shall provide protection from frostbite in any area of the body covered by the system in -49° Fahrenheit temperatures over a duration of two hours.” The questions to be answered requests on page 4, Item C “What tests were conducted to indicate protection from frostbite in any area of the body covered by the system in -49 degree Fahrenheit temperatures over duration of six hours?” We are asking for clarification as to the testing standard. Should the standard be two hours or six hours?

A: For the gloves and multi-layer system the test should cover 2 hrs. For the Boots, the test should cover 6 hrs.

6. As identified on page 7, Mid and Base Layer Testing Requirements, the expected testing characteristic for Bursting Strength is “psi/300 kpa (ASTM D3786)”. Is it reasonable to have the same requirement for the base and mid layer as for the outer garment? This is not typical for knit-based base and mid layer fabrics.

A: The bursting strength requirement is not for the garment itself, it is for the machine.

The machine used must have the ability to test to psi/300 kpa.

7. As identified on page 3, Item O, the expected requirement states, “When the mid layer and base layer suit is worn together as an ensemble, the suit must meet or exceed the current FR rating for the Air Force approved flight suit.” Request clarification on performance requirement as it appears written.

A: The FR requirements that need to be met include: For 2nd degree burns 28.42%, for 3rd degree burns 11.20% and for overall burns 39.61%.

8. Is this system intended to be worn by an aircrew member while engaged in air operations or is it intended to be packaged into an ejection seat or other emergency kit located onboard an aircraft?

A: This system is intended to be worn by an aircrew member while engaged in air operations.

9. Is a clo of 2.5 is required or is it "desired".

A: A clo of 2.5 is the "desired" amount only

10. Is it only textile mills with NAICS code 314 that can respond to this solicitation? Or can apparel manufacturers as well (NAICS-315)?

A: The AF is currently conducting market research and will most definitely welcome a response from apparel manufactures. Unfortunately, the FBO website allows for only one NAICS code entry therefore, we select the code that is thought to be the best representation of the product. However, we realize that some of these items may fall into several categories one of which could be 315.

11. Is there a potential that this will be set-aside for 8(a) companies?

A: The AF is currently conducting market research and has not made any decisions as to whether this effort will be set-aside for a small business. The responses received from the RFI's and any other industry information gathered during our market research phase will greatly assist us in making that determination.