Seismic Cone Penetration Testing

Department of the Interior, United States Geological Survey (USGS)
Earthquake Science Center
Request for Information (RFI):
Seismic Cone Penetration Testing Services in Walla Walla Valley, WA
UNRESTRICTED
All information submitted in response to this announcement is voluntary, the government will not pay for information requested nor will it compensate any respondent for any cost incurred in developing information provided to the Government. Materials submitted to the Government for review will not be returned.
NAICS Code: 541330 - Engineering Services
Product Service Code (PSC): B517 - Special Studies/Analysis- Geotechnical
Introduction:
The USGS Earthquake Science Center seeks information from firms capable of providing Seismic Cone Penetration Testing (CPT) services in Walla Walla Valley, WA, to assist in seismic hazard assessments.
Investigations aim to understand seismic risks, focusing on liquefaction susceptibility of deposits in the Walla Walla Valley. This RFI is to identify potential sources for conducting detailed sCPT as part of these efforts.
Operational Details:
1. The contractor will perform sCPT to collect data necessary for assessing liquefaction susceptibility. Data collection must include tip resistance, sleeve friction, inclination data with a maximum vertical data sampling spacing of 5 cm, and shear wave velocity data with a maximum vertical spacing of 2 m.
2. Target depth for sCPTs is 20 meters at all locations, with contingency plans for shallower refusal.
3. Provision of all data in a non-proprietary digital format (.csv or .txt) alongside a comprehensive written summary report detailing findings.
4. Collaboration with USGS to finalize test sites within the Valley, ensuring suitability for data collection.
5. Acquisition of standard tip resistance, sleeve friction, pore pressure measurements, and shear wave velocity data at approximately 10 predetermined sites, focusing on the upper ~100 ft of the surface.
6. Analysis and interpretation of data to determine liquefaction potential.
7. Ensuring all sCPT holes are sealed post-testing, adhering to local and state environmental policies.
8. The USGS will provide specific site locations and secure necessary permits.
RFI Information Requested:
To inform our procurement strategy, the USGS is seeking detailed information from vendors that can provide the required vessel services. Interested parties are requested to submit the following:
1. Experience: Information on qualifications and experience, specifically regarding their expertise in supporting scientific missions.
2. Operational History: Examples of previous missions or projects that demonstrate experience with similar operational requirements.
3. Additional Services: Description of any additional services or capabilities that could support the USGS missions, including technological advantages or logistical support.
4. Company Information: Business size, UEI, and SAM registration status
Responses and Submission Details:
Submissions should be sent electronically, including all requested information and any supplementary documents, to the contact below by the specified deadline:
¿ Contact: Joel Berberena, Contracting Specialist
¿ Email: jberberena@usgs.gov
¿ Deadline: March 21, 2024 @0500 hours Pacific Standard Time
Disclaimer
The USGS Earthquake Science Center will use the information gathered from this RFI to inform its acquisition strategy. Participation in this RFI does not guarantee a future contract or indicate any commitment from the USGS to pursue procurement of the described services. No contractual agreement will be entered into based on responses to this RFI.