CARBON BRUSH & HOLDER
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Bureau of Reclamation, Grand Coulee Power Office, under the Department of the Interior, is issuing a Solicitation (RFQ) for Carbon Brush & Holder (electrical contact brushes and electrodes). This requirement is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. A key aspect of this procurement is a brand-name specific requirement for Helwig Carbon Products, Inc., justified by the need for compatibility with existing Grand Coulee Dam equipment to prevent damage and costly outages. Responses are due by January 26, 2026.
Scope of Work
This solicitation seeks the procurement of various types of spring brushes and carbon brush holders. Key requirements include:
- Detailed specifications for each item.
- Brand Name Requirement: Vendors must confirm the brand name and part number/description of the quoted item and provide manufacturer specification sheets.
- Metric Sizing Not Acceptable: All quoted items must adhere to specified non-metric sizing.
- Delivery: Required by April 30, 2026.
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Solicitation (RFQ) for commercial products and services.
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business (100%).
- NAICS Code: 335991, Size Standard: 500 employees.
- Brand Name Justification: Procurement is justified as a single-source acquisition from Helwig Carbon Products, Inc. due to proprietary rights and critical compatibility with Grand Coulee Dam's existing equipment.
- Published Date: January 20, 2026.
Submission & Evaluation
- Submission Method: Vendors must submit pricing on a company system-generated listing for each line item, including brand name, part number, description, quantity, unit price, and total cost. Manufacturer specification sheets are also required.
- Submission Format: Pricing and manufacturer specifications must be submitted via email to Don Richer at dricher@usbr.gov.
- Quote Submission: Offers must be submitted by the exact time specified in the solicitation.
- Evaluation Criteria: Award will be made to the responsible offeror whose offer is most advantageous, considering price and other factors, with "Lowest Price" being the primary evaluation factor.
- Offer Acceptance Period: Offerors must hold prices firm for 30 calendar days.
- Invoicing: Electronic invoicing and payment will be processed through the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Invoice Processing Platform System (IPP).
Contact
Donald Richer (dricher@usbr.gov)