The US Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District, has issued a Sources Sought notice to gather market research for Boiler equipment needed at Ellsworth Air Force Base, SD, for three B-21 construction projects. The projects involve renovating specific docks and are classified as Military Construction (MILCON) and Operations & Maintenance (O&M). The intention is to establish procurement methods based on responses to this notice, which may favor Advanced Thermal Hydronics (ATH) KN Series Boilers due to existing installations and technician familiarity. The estimated cost for the required boiler equipment ranges from $25,000 to $400,000 per project, totaling around $600,000 across all projects. Vendors are encouraged to submit capabilities statements detailing compliance with ATH specifications, ignition methods, efficiency, and maintenance requirements for potential contracts deemed Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). The deadline for submission is April 30, 2025. This initiative reflects the Army's commitment to operational efficiency while adhering to DoD construction and security standards.

The HVAC and Controls Category Intelligence Report provides a comprehensive analysis of the U.S. Air Force's procurement and management of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, particularly focusing on chillers and control systems. The report identifies the Air Force's challenges in optimizing the total cost of ownership (TCO) due to an emphasis on initial purchase costs, leading to significantly higher cumulative maintenance and repair expenses. It highlights an urgent need for standardized procurement practices to enhance operational efficiency, training, and cybersecurity. Key findings indicate that the Air Force's historical spending shows a disproportionate investment in maintenance and repair, which can be reduced through a strategic focus on TCO. The report recommends moving towards standardizing HVAC equipment across installations, expecting to save an estimated $250 million over ten years by reducing operational complexities and vendor variability. The analysis emphasizes the importance of treating HVAC systems as critical components of the Air Force's mission infrastructure, comparable to weapon systems, in order to improve both resilience and efficiency in long-term facility management. Overall, this report outlines actionable steps aimed at improving HVAC procurement and lifecycle management within the Air Force framework, aligning with broader strategic goals for enhanced facility operations.

The Department of the Air Force at Ellsworth Air Force Base is seeking authorization for the brand name acquisition of Advanced Thermal Hydronics (ATH) KN-Series boilers due to their specialized design suited for windy conditions prevalent in the area. These boilers feature a piloted ignition system with multiple retry attempts, crucial for functionality during high winds, and are noted for their efficiency, achieving up to 99% energy efficiency with a 25-year cast iron heat exchanger warranty. A comparative analysis indicates that while other boiler manufacturers such as Lochinvar and Fulton provide alternatives, they fall short in wind suitability, warranty, and longevity. The proposal emphasizes the benefits of standardizing on one brand to minimize training and maintenance costs, reflecting a prior successful acquisition of Carrier chillers. Given the lack of similar products with comparable features, the team urges approval of the request to simplify operations and enhance reliability at Ellsworth AFB while mitigating costs. For further inquiries, Mr. Erik Haakedahl is available for contact.