Bldg. 154 - Boiler #3 Refractory Repair

The Department of Agriculture Forest Service seeks quotations for boiler refractory repair services at Building 154 of the National Animal Disease Center, with quotations due September 24 and questions due September 21. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside with a $19 million size standard.

Place of performance is Ames, Iowa. Work includes asbestos abatement and encapsulation on friable material at mud drum access openings; repair of the firebox manway frame and studs to restore minimum 15"W × 19"H inside dimensions; removal and disposal of loose and damaged refractory; inspection of the exterior shell for heat damage with required repairs and repainting; and installation of new 3000F-rated refractory matching original dimensions to maintain compliance with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources air quality permit. The contractor must prepare and remove/reinstall the firebox manway access door, mud drum, and steam drum access openings. An option includes replacing insulation in four manway openings on both mud drum and steam drum ends with removable ceramic blanket insulation plugs. The contractor must notify the Iowa DNR, submit asbestos abatement and encapsulant materials, provide welder certifications, ensure safety compliance, and furnish mobilization, demobilization, portable toilet facilities, and dumpsters. The government provides lock-out/tag-out services, water, and specified electrical power outlets (208V 3-phase 60A and two 120V-20A receptacles). Adjacent boiler #2 must remain operational throughout work with maintained access.

Work must commence within 10 calendar days of notice to proceed and be completed within 180 calendar days. One mandatory site visit is scheduled for September 18, 2026 at 9:00 AM CDT; contractors must RSVP 24 hours in advance and bring government-issued identification. Evaluation uses lowest priced technically acceptable methodology; technical criteria include ability to meet schedule and explanation of any unachievable requirements. Past performance is evaluated as acceptable, neutral, or unacceptable. Performance and payment bonds are required. Progress payments are authorized monthly with maximum 10 percent retainage for unsatisfactory progress. Prices must remain firm for 90 days. NAICS code is 238220; prevailing wage rates apply under Davis-Bacon.