36C25626R0023 RFI Answers
Proposal RFI #1 Drawing E502 (partial one-line) shows 5KV switchgear feeding transformers and 15KV switchgear feeding transformers. Is that accurate? What is the primary voltage of all the transformers? Can we get that included in the table on drawing E501.
Use drawings E401-E406. Drawing # 502 detail 4 show existing 5KV switch gear at building 88 has been removed. Everything is 15KV.
Proposal RFI #2 Can we get a one-line that shows all the transformers and manholes? Similar to drawing E502 but will all the transformers and manholes. See the attached marked up E502 that shows the transformers I was able to deduce by the buildings they are feeding (per the table in E501). Note that one of the manholes we looked at during the site visit was outside of Building 69, and it has cables running through it with T-connectors tapped off to feed a load that was assumed to be the nearby Transformer 18, but drawing E502 shows a separate unlabeled vault feeding T18. So drawing E502 might not be very accurate anyway, but it could be a good starting point, and it would helpful if the loops were color-coded.
Attached drawings are for information only.
Proposal RFI #3 Can we get a bid extension of at least two weeks?
See P0003 Block 11.
Proposal RFI #4 Can we schedule another site visit and walk to every transformer that is being replaced? Can we also look at the switchgear feeding the loops, and can we see the sites where the sectionalizers are going to be installed?
An additional site visit will not be authorized.
Proposal RFI #5 Can we assume that the cable feeding each transformer will need to be replaced because it s impossible to know if the existing cables will be long enough to reach the new transformer terminals? Can we get approximate (or assumed average) distances from the separable connectors to the transformers?
The intent is to procure replacement transformers with similar connections that do not require additional cable length.
Proposal RFI #6 During the site visit, it was mentioned that there are photos of all the manholes, but those don t appear in the bid documents. Can we get those photos with labels / file names corresponding to the manhole?
No organized library of photos exists.
Proposal RFI #7 I perused the plans and specs for a specific Schneider PME monitoring system or for a spec section which would outline the salient characteristics of a PME monitoring system. The specs are missing the spec section completely, and the plans make no reference to a BoD. This is an important part of this solicitation, and there are several Schneider options to choose from each providing a leg up on the other https://www.se.com/us/en/product-category/4100-power-metering-and-energy-monitoring-systems/Â . Can you please reach out to your engineering department, request more information from them, and post an amendment with the information.Â
Exact energy monitors shall be coordinated with the VA. Existing monitoring equipment appeared to be Square D PowerLogic PM800 devices. See RFI#22, RFI#41, RFI#42, RFI#43, RFI #45, RFI#46
Proposal RFI #8 None of the drawings showing the cable route are to scale. Can you provide a drawing with an accurate scale in order to get an accurate measurement of the cable lengths?
Drawings are intended to indicate locations of each manhole, transformer, and other equipment in SOW. No cabling is expected to be replaced. Only the splices/separable connectors are being replaced.
Proposal RFI #9 The drawings are incomplete showing the duct bank route to the transformers. Can you provide drawings showing the complete route?
Reference Prints E401-E406
All available information is indicated. See RFI #5, RFI#19, RFI#33, RFI#53.
Proposal RFI #10 - The schedule does not indicate the Primary Voltage. Please provide the Primary Voltage for the transformers.
All the primary voltages for transformers are 13.8kV. RFI#1, RFI#40
Proposal RFI #11 Is there a spare conduit that can be used for the new cable while the existing cable stays energized?
Manholes must be de-energized when accessed. See RFI # 8.
Proposal RFI #12 Are we allowed to work in manholes with energized cables in them?
No.
Proposal RFI #13 Can you provide a drawing to scale showing the route of the manholes with duct-banks and locations of the transformers?
All information is indicated. See RFI #8 and 67.
Proposal RFI #14 On Sheet E001 Scope of Work Notes
Note 1.4 states Provide Grounding as indicated in Specs. for all transformers indicated. The only place in the prints that mention Transformer Grounding is on Sheet E502 Transformer Notes Note 4. States Any transformer without sufficient Grounding shall have new grounding provided as indicated in Detail . The contractor has no way of knowing the quantity of this during the bid process. Please advise as to how we should estimate this or will a cost adjustment be issued when the quantity is known?
Electrical equipment should be grounded in accordance with the current National Electric Code standard.
Proposal RFI #15 Sheet E001 Scope of Work Notes
Note 2.4 states Provide Grounding as indicated in Specs. for all Manholes as indicated.
I cannot find anywhere where the prints indicate manhole grounding, please indicate the quantity of manholes needing grounding.
Electrical equipment should be grounded in accordance with the current National Electric Code standard.
Proposal RFI #16 Is there any known asbestos insulation on existing primary cables if so, how will this be handled?
No. Asbestos abatement is not in the contract scope.
Proposal RFI #17 Will Temporary Generators be required for Outages and if so, what buildings must be able to size accordingly?
There are only three (3) mission critical buildings as determined in the design phase. See E001 Phasing Notes for mission critical buildings.
Proposal RFI #18 - Define separable connections. After opening manholes it appears that these are just modular splices not bolted T-bodies for disconnecting
Elastimold catalog # K150T is an example of a tee splice.
Proposal RFI #19 - When replacing the required transformers what happens if the existing Primary & secondary cabling is too short to make up on the new Transformers
The intent is to procure replacement transformers with similar connections that do not require additional cable length.
Proposal RFI #20 - What is the amount of total duration requirements for a single outage
See E001 Phasing Notes. Work hours shall be 7AM Saturday through 7PM Sunday. Any power outage shall be coordinated with the VA as indicated. Only VA personnel disconnect/reconnect power under normal conditions.
Proposal RFI #21 In the Description of Work page 2 of 7 states Each of the splices in the manholes identified shall be replaced with new devices in kind with existing type During the site visit a couple manholes were opened, it appears that when you remove (cutting out) the existing splices the cable will more than likely be too short to make new splices and mount on the racks. Please advise if this will be a mod. to the contract.
Intent is to make existing connections in the same configuration as existing. X, T, Straight, etc. New connections shall be in accordance with design drawings, specifications, and applicable Codes. Exact cable length needed to be determined by contractor.
Proposal RFI #22 In the Description of Work page 2 of 7 states new metering devices will be connected to the existing PME system. Will anything other than the meter and programing need to be provided? Will we use existing CT s and wiring?
Assume new transformers will require new metering. See RFI#7, RFI#41, RFI#42, RFI#43, RFI #45, RFI #46
Proposal RFI #23 Since this is not a cable replacement job & is only a transformer change out, as discussed in the Site Visit. Will replacing the splices in the manholes as indicated in the Electrical Scope of Work Notes 2.1 & the Manhole Information notes still be required?
Project SOW is as indicated on E001. Transformers, Manholes and Splice/separable connections are part of the designed SOW. See RFI#63.
Proposal RFI #24 Per Factor 3 Past Performance (PPQ Exhibit B), will the Government accept existing finalized CPARS evaluations in lieu of the Past Performance Questionnaire (Exhibit B) required by the solicitation when CPARS is available for the same projects?
CPARS will be accepted in place of Exhibit B, and offers will not be penalized if Exhibit B is not provided. .
Proposal RFI #25 Will the Government extend the due date at least 10 days from the date of publishing an Amendment answering all RFI s?
See P0003 Block 11.
Proposal RFI #26 SF 1442 states Verification showing seal shall be included with proposal (pricing volume) . What seal is the government referring to in this case?
This language is leftover and should be disregarded.
Proposal RFI #27 Will the VA require the SSHO to be a full time dedicated position for this project, or may the SSHO perform collateral duties and/or be combined with the QCM role?
Due to the nature of this project, the SSHO should be a dedicated role. Additionally, other key site roles should be dedicated solely to this project (with no billable hours attributable to other projects).
Proposal RFI #28 Will the VA require the QCM to be a full time dedicated position for this project, or may the QCM perform collateral duties and/or be combined with the SSHO role?
See #27
Proposal RFI #29 If SSHO and QCM collateral duties are permissible, are there any limitations on combining these roles that we must consider to ensure compliance with VA expectations?
See RFI#27
Proposal RFI #30 Drawing E001, Phasing Notes, states that work shall be performed on only one loop at a time to minimize outages, and that any work requiring power disconnection must be conducted during weekends. Given the scope of work and required phasing to replace all electrical components and equipment, will the VA allow the contractor to perform consecutive weekend shutdowns to progress the work? If not permitted, this may result in cost impacts to the government due to multiple mobilizations required to complete the project.
Yes, but if there are multi feeders going thru the manhole getting new splices all feeders in that location will have to be deenergized.
Proposal RFI #31 To support development of the project schedule and phasing plan and ensure the most efficient means of contract performance, will the VA clarify outage constraints, including the maximum number of outages permitted per month, whether outages may occur on consecutive weekends, and whether a specific sequence of feeder loops is required?
All weekends except national holidays should be considered acceptable. No specific sequence.
Proposal RFI #32 Is the work limited to the manholes identified in the Manhole Information Table, or will the contractor be responsible for work on additional manholes not shown on the drawings?
Only for the manholes indicated.
Proposal RFI #33 Drawings E401 E406 show several 90-degree directional changes in conduits along feeder loops. Will the VA provide as-built utility drawings identifying all electrical manholes across the campus that are not currently shown on the drawings?
All information is indicated. See RFI #5, RFI#9, RFI#19, RFI#53.
Proposal RFI #34 Drawing E501, Manhole Information Table, the structural work notes indicate an estimated square footage for exterior spall repairs for certain manholes. Refer to the picture below of MH8, will the VA clarify whether the exterior refers to the slab area highlighted in red?
The photo shown does not show MH8. In that location, there are a total of (3) Manhole covers. MH8 is the closest one to the road. See attached photos for reference.
Proposal RFI #35 Drawing E001, Electrical General Note 11, states that all manholes indicated on the drawings shall have new lockable covers per the VA PSRDM . The PSRDM does not provide product-specific details. Will the VA provide specifications for cover materials, load rating, locking mechanism, dimensions, and any other requirements for the manholes listed in Table E501 requiring lockable covers?
Provide lockable covers as required drawings and VA PSRDM. Means of locking including materials shall be provided by the contractor for review.
Proposal RFI #36 Where is dewatering discharge permitted? Will the VA allow discharge to surrounding ditches?
Since these manholes do not connect to sanitary sewer, the water is considered to be natural runoff/groundwater. CAVHS Safety stated there should be no issue with dewatering electrical manholes to the surrounding area.
Proposal RFI #37 Will the VA provide as-built drawings of the storm drainage system for the EJT NLR VA campus?
All information available is already indicated.
Proposal RFI #38 Is NETA testing required to be performed every weekend (Sunday) at the end of each shutdown prior to re-energizing the loops?
NETA testing shall be performed once loop is completed. Work shall be done in accordance with Drawings, specifications and applicable codes. See RFI#39.
Proposal RFI #39 Will the VA allow NETA testing to be performed once per completed loop to minimize the number of mobilizations?
NETA testing shall be performed once loop is completed. Work shall be done in accordance with Drawings, specifications and applicable codes. See RFI#38.
Proposal RFI #40 On Drawing E501, Transformer Information Table, the primary system voltage is not indicated. Will the VA confirm that the NLR VA campus is served at 13.8 kV?
All of the primary voltages for transformers in SOW are 13.8kV. RFI#1, RFI#10
Proposal RFI #41 The electrical scope and transformer information indicate that power meters and sub-meters must be compatible with the existing facility PME monitoring system. Will the VA clarify whether there is a central control room on campus that monitors the transformers?
Existing control room in Building 80.
Proposal RFI #42 Are there existing underground duct banks for metering cables from each transformer to the control room PME monitoring system?
All available information is provided.
Proposal RFI #43 Will the VA clarify whether the contractor is responsible for installing underground duct banks for metering cables from the transformers to the PME monitoring system?
All available information is provided.
Proposal RFI #44 If the contractor is responsible for installing new underground duct banks, will the VA provide requirements for concrete encasement (dimensions and strength) and minimum burial depth?
No new duct banks are anticipated. In the event a new duct bank needs to be installed it would be constructed to meet the VA T.I.L.
Proposal RFI #45 Will the VA identify the location of the PME monitoring system control room in the drawings?
Existing control room in Building 80.
Proposal RFI #46 Will the VA provide pictures of the PME monitoring system control room, as this area was not accessible during the site walkthrough?
Existing control room in Building 80.
Proposal RFI #47 Drawing E501, the sectionalizer detail includes a note stating: (5) 150 ft female plug/pigtail 6-pin cables - status connection to the substation control room. Will the VA clarify whether SCADA integration is required for the new sectionalizers with the substation monitoring system?
It is included. Contractor to verify existing distances between control room and sectionalizer(s).
Proposal RFI #48 Will the VA identify the locations of all substations on the EJT NLR VA campus?
Substations are housed in Building 169.
Proposal RFI #49 Will the VA clarify whether the contractor is responsible for SCADA programming and screen development for this project?
It is included.
Proposal RFI #50 If SCADA integration is required, will the VA provide the point of contact for the VA s SCADA support contractor at the EJT NLR VA campus?
Existing system manufacturer is indicated above.
Proposal RFI #51 Will the VA provide as-built site drawings showing existing underground communication pathways that may be used for routing monitoring cables between sectionalizers and substation control rooms?
All available information is provided.
Proposal RFI #52 Will the VA specify the required generator size for backup power to Building 22?
Field verification required. 30-day load test. Generator to be sized 125% peak load.
Proposal RFI #53 During the site visit meeting, the VA indicated having pictures of each manhole (all four sides). Will the VA please provide pictures to prospective bidders?
No organized library of photos exists.
Proposal RFI #54 On Drawing E501, Transformer Information Table, the secondary voltage for Transformer #30 is not indicated. Will the VA provide this information?
Documentation indicates secondary connection for transformer that serves building #34 is 120/208V. Field verify before ordering.
Proposal RFI #55 If an existing transformer is replaced and the existing cable length is insufficient for termination, what is the required procedure to address this condition?
The intent is to procure replacement transformers with similar connections that do not require additional cable length.
Proposal RFI #56 Drawing E502 references that one-line data is based on drawings dated January 2, 1980. Will the VA please confirm whether these reference drawings are part of the contract and, if so, provide them in an amendment?
The drawing provided for #33 is dated 02-25-11.
Referenced drawings are not part of the SOW. One line was shown for information only to provide the known interconnections. See E001 for SOW.
Proposal RFI #57 Drawing E501, Manhole Information Table, identifies MH33-1 and MH33-2; however, these manholes are not shown on the utility plan or loop drawings. Will the VA identify the locations of MH33-1 and MH33-2 on the drawings?
Manhole 33 identified on drawings. Manholes are adjacent to each other.
Proposal RFI #58 To accommodate long lead items required for this project, will the government consider the issuance of an Administrative Notice to Proceed to permit the submittal process and then the issuance of a Construction Notice to Proceed closer to the anticipated delivery date for the equipment with the longest lead time? Currently, the transformers have an up to 80-week lead time (worst case scenario).
We will review the issuance of an administrative notice to proceed for long lead items.
Proposal RFI #59 Will the existing MV load break elbows be replaced, or are they to remain in place?
The intent is for new connectors
Proposal RFI #60 Drawing E001, Existing Conditions and Material Notes, references a "200A Tee Splice-Elastimold brand catalog number 150T manhole terminations or equivalent." Will the VA confirm whether this is the only part required to be replaced for manhole splices?
Contractor to provide same manufacturer and rating as noted. Exact configuration to be coordinated with shapes indicated and present in the field. See RFI#61
Proposal RFI #61 Drawing E001, Existing Conditions and Material Notes, references a "200A Tee Splice-Elastimold brand catalog number 150T manhole terminations or equivalent. ; however, no reference is provided for L and X splices. Will the VA provide specifications for L and X splices so the contractor can accurately price these components?
Contractor to provide same manufacturer and rating as noted. Exact configuration to be coordinated with shapes indicated and present in the field. See RFI#60
Proposal RFI #62 Will the VA confirm the conductor size for the splices to ensure the correct splice sizes are quoted?
Assumed conductor size is noted in existing conditions and material notes E001.
Proposal RFI #63 Since this is not a cable replacement job & is only a transformer change out, as discussed in the Site Visit. Will replacing the splices in the manholes as indicated in the Electrical Scope of Work Notes 2.1 & the Manhole Information notes still be required?
Yes. Transformers, Manholes and Splice/separable connections are part of the designed SOW. See RFI#63.
Proposal RFI #64 -Will the VA clarify whether the survey requirements specified in Section 02 21 13 apply only to the contract work areas (e.g., feeder routes, duct banks, transformer and sectionalizer locations, and manhole tie-in points), or if a full campus-wide survey is required?
Survey items limited to SOW items only. See RFI#66.
Proposal RFI #65 Will the VA confirm whether the required survey must be completed before the start of construction activities, or if it may be performed progressively during construction as needed?
Recommend full survey prior to construction. Any changes based on non-surveyed field conditions is responsibility of the contractor. Contractor to determine.
Proposal RFI #66 Will the VA clarify whether the survey scope is limited to documenting contractor-installed work within the areas of alteration (as-built conditions only), or if a comprehensive existing conditions survey of the project site is required?
Survey items limited to SOW items only. See RFI#64.
Proposal RFI #67 Will the VA provide any existing or historical as-built drawings that indicate the locations of underground electrical feeders serving the transformers across the campus?
All available information is provided.
Proposal RFI #68 Per the SOW, new equipment pads must be constructed at mission-critical service buildings, including Transformers 18, 29, and 35. However, Drawing E50, Transformer Information Table Structural Not indicates that Transformers 18 and 35 require concrete spall repairs and epoxy crack injection, while Transformer 26 does not need any repairs. Will the VA clarify whether the contractor is responsible for providing and installing new equipment pads for Transformers 18, 29, and 35, or if the work should be performed in accordance with the Transformer Information Table shown on Drawing E501?
That is indicated on the current set of drawings.
Proposal RFI #69 Drawing E00, Existing Conditions and Material Notes, mentions assumed 200A deadbreak Elastimold components (e.g., 151 series). However, supplier feedback indicates that these part numbers are obsolete and have extended lead times. Will the VA confirm whether equivalent or alternative products may be used? Specifically, would the VA consider allowing 600A deadbreak elbow configurations for T splices?
Substitutions shall meet project specifications at a minimum. All material subject to VA approval.
Proposal RFI #70 Will the VA confirm whether this project is subject to the Build America, Buy America (BABA) requirements, or is compliance limited to the Buy American Act provisions included in the solicitation?
Buy American Act provisions as indicated in the solicitation only.
Proposal RFI #71 Will the VA consider allowing Vortex QM-1s Restore to be accepted as an approved product and manufacturer for the concrete repair scope under Section 03 32 00? QM-1s Restore is a high-strength, fiber-reinforced cementitious repair mortar designed for structural rehabilitation of concrete and masonry, suitable for vertical and overhead applications, with compressive strengths exceeding 9,000 psi at 28 days. Please see the attached Technical Data Sheet for additional information.
No product pre-approvals allowed. Product submissions will be reviewed for compliance with the specifications and drawings after the award.
