The US Army Corps of Engineers’ Walla Walla District is seeking approval for a sole source contract with Trane Technologies for the retubing of evaporator and condenser tubes in two Trane heat pumps at the McNary Project. The need arises due to the degradation of existing tubing caused by raw water exposure, necessitating proprietary 90/10 CuNi tubes from Trane, as only certified vendors can install them and provide a warranty. Market research indicates a lack of qualified vendors interested in participating in an open solicitation. Sole sourcing is justified since alternative solutions, such as contracting multiple vendors or delaying tube replacement, could lead to operational failures of essential heat pumps and substantial loss of power generation. Given these considerations, contracting exclusively with Trane is deemed in the government's best interest, aligning with FAR regulations regarding sole source procurement due to urgency and requirements for specific brand components. This contract is projected to ensure reliable operation and maintenance of crucial components underpinning the McNary Project's power-generating capabilities.
The document outlines technical specifications for the retubing of two 200-ton capacity Trane Water-Cooled Chillers at McNary's Powerhouse. The primary goal is to replace defective tubes in the existing chillers following the successful commissioning of a third unit. The contractor is responsible for supplying labor, tools, and materials to extract, clean, and install new condenser and evaporator tubes, with specific material requirements outlined in the specifications.
The document details the necessary characteristics of both the condenser and evaporator tubes, including dimensions, material specifications (CuNi), and the total number of tubes required. Additionally, it clarifies responsibilities for both contractor and McNary personnel during the repair process, emphasizing the need for proper insulation and updates to equipment nameplates.
Security protocols for contractor personnel working at federal installations are also articulated, requiring compliance with various training and access control measures. The warranty for repairs is set at a minimum of one year. The project is scheduled for performance between September to November 2024, or April to June 2025, with specific requirements for the shipment and storage of materials to ensure quality upon delivery. Overall, this document serves as a critical guideline for contractor involvement in maintaining facility operations at McNary Lock and Dam.