Trolley Carbon Inserts

The Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority (RTA) is soliciting bids for Trolley Carbon Inserts, a critical component used to transfer power from 600v DC trolley wire to trolley buses. The Invitation for Bid (IFB) was released on July 31, 2025, with bids due on August 26, 2025, at 10:00 am Eastern time. The three-year contract anticipates purchasing approximately 30,000 inserts (10,000 parts annually), with potential contract extension if mutually agreed. Bidders must submit comprehensive technical specifications, Safety Data Sheet (SDS) documents, and detailed drawings of proposed carbon inserts, with encouragement to provide independent testing results. Evaluation criteria will focus on selecting the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, with specific requirements including carbon inserts that do not contain lead. Pre-approved manufacturers include Kiepe, Schunk Carbon Technology LLC, Morgan Advanced Materials, and Pantrac. The contract is partially funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), requiring compliance with federal procurement regulations.

The procurement opportunity includes several important considerations for potential bidders. While the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation goal is set at 0%, bidders must still comply with federal non-discrimination and equal opportunity regulations. The contract includes Buy America provisions and requires various federal certifications. Pricing is expected to be fixed for each contract year, with potential for annual increases, and RTA reserves the right to award the contract to one or more contractors. Comprehensive insurance requirements are mandatory, including Workers' Compensation, Commercial General Liability, Commercial Auto Liability, and Excess/Umbrella Insurance with specific coverage limits. Contractors must maintain detailed financial records and allow auditing by RTA, state, and federal representatives. Payment terms are net 30 days, and contractors must adhere to strict operational protocols, including wearing identification badges and company-identifying clothing while on RTA premises.