PIP-II PRECAST CONCRETE SHIELD BLOCKS

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This Request for Proposal (RFP) is issued by Fermi Forward Discovery Group, LLC (FFDG) for the fabrication and delivery of Precast Concrete Shield Blocks for the Proton Improvement Plan II (PIP-II) project at Fermilab. This project is an upgrade to Fermilab's accelerator complex supporting the international Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment.

• Fabrication and delivery of specific precast concrete shield blocks as detailed in the exhibits.

• Offerors must demonstrate the ability to design, fabricate, test, and deliver items in full compliance with the Statement of Work (SOW).

• Specific block types include "PIP-II Absorber Shield Blocks" and "PIP-II BTL Shield Blocks."

• The proposed subcontract will be firm-fixed-price.

• The price proposal must be valid for 90 days from the final proposal due date.

• Delivery terms are FOB Destination, Fermilab, Batavia, IL, including shipping/freight costs.

• Proposals are due by April 30, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. CST.

• Proposals must be submitted in two parts: Part I - Technical Proposal and Part II - Business/Cost/Price.

• The evaluation criteria are "lowest price-technically acceptable."

• Technical proposal evaluation factors include: experience (minimum 5 years in precast concrete products, PCI certification, key personnel experience), and current/past projects (three projects of similar size, scope, and complexity within the last five years).

• Pricing must be submitted using the provided RFP Document and Pricing Form (Exhibit A).

• This acquisition is unrestricted.

• NAICS code: 327390 (Other Concrete Product Manufacturing Specialty), with a small business size standard of 500 employees.

• A small business subcontracting plan is required if the awardee does not meet the small business definition and the subcontract exceeds $750,000.00.

• All questions regarding the solicitation must be submitted in writing by April 16, 4:00 PM CST.

• Offerors must acknowledge receipt of any amendments.

• Any exceptions or deviations must be clearly documented on company letterhead and may impact proposal acceptability.

• Proprietary information must be clearly marked.

• A list of numerous exhibits detailing specifications, drawings, terms and conditions, and forms is provided.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This document specifies the requirements for furnishing and delivering precast concrete shield blocks.

• Furnishing and delivery of precast reinforced concrete shielding blocks, complete with embedded items.

• Includes reinforcing bars, support chairs, forms, and shop and setting drawings.

• Embedded items and materials are specified on drawings.

• Manufacturer must specialize in precast concrete products and services for at least five years.

• Casting must occur at a single manufacturing plant familiar with the specified elements.

• Subcontractor is responsible for examining drawings, providing shop drawings, and ensuring formwork is approved before casting.

• Quality control data, including tests of content, aggregates, water, casting time, and temperature, must be maintained.

• Fermilab reserves the right to conduct slump tests, secure cylinder samples, and inspect reinforcement and embedment prior to pours, requiring 48-hour notice.

• Rejected blocks due to defects will be replaced at no additional cost to Fermilab.

• Delivery is to a designated location on the Fermilab site.

• Delivery coordination with Fermilab is required, with a 48-hour notice.

• Materials must comply with specified ASTM, ACI, AWS, CRSI, and PCI standards.

• Concrete mix design requires a minimum compressive strength of 5000 psi (28 Day) and a maximum water-cementitious ratio of 0.40.

• Air content for block units must be between 2.5% and 4.5%.

• Fabrication must adhere to strict formwork, reinforcement placement, and concrete mixing/placing procedures.

• Curing must follow PCI MNL 116 requirements.

• Units must be carefully packed and loaded for shipment and stored off the ground at the site.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This Statement of Work (SOW) outlines the requirements for the procurement of precast concrete shield blocks for the PIP-II Project.

• Manufacture and deliver four (4) precast concrete shield blocks to Fermilab.

• Specific blocks required: Front Block (F10237376), Upstream Block (F10234214), Bottom Block (F10237394), and Top Block (F102374215).

• The subcontractor must furnish all necessary supervision, labor, materials, tools, and appurtenances.

• Work includes transportation and delivery of the blocks to Fermilab.

• A site visit by FRA to review locations of critical embeds prior to concrete casting is expected.

• All work required to complete the project in accordance with the provided drawings and/or specifications.

• The subcontractor is responsible for managing, controlling, and documenting that work complies with subcontract documents.

• Ensuring adequate Quality Control services for all work performed.

• No materials or equipment will be furnished by FRA.

• All personnel entering or working at Fermilab must provide Real ID and obtain badging.

• Manufacturing will occur at the subcontractor's production facility.

• Delivery to Fermilab for offloading.

• On-site coordination with Fermilab prior to delivery is required.

• Milestone 0: Purchase Order Issued (Work may begin).

• Milestone 1: 14 Calendar Days – Submittals.

• Milestone 2: 70 Calendar Days – Complete (delivery) with only punch-list items remaining.

• Milestone 3: 84 Calendar Days - Project Complete (including acceptance of as-built drawings and submittals).

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "FFDG GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS OR COMMERCIAL SERVICES (08/2025)", outlines the standard terms and conditions that will govern subcontracts issued by Fermi Forward Discovery Group, LLC (FFDG) for commercial products and services. It serves as a foundational document for potential bidders to understand the contractual obligations and requirements.

This document details numerous clauses covering:

• General Provisions: Definitions, scope of subcontract, independent contractor status, assignment, acceptance, and standard of performance.
• Payment, Inspection, Licenses, and Permits: Terms related to payment schedules, inspection rights, and the requirement for subcontractors to maintain valid licenses and permits.
• Changes and Modifications: Procedures for FFDG to implement changes to the subcontract and the subcontractor's right to seek equitable adjustments.
• Indemnification and Liabilities: Provisions for indemnifying FFDG, assumption of risk, theft, warranties, suspect/counterfeit parts, limitation of liability, and excusable delays.
• Termination and Non-Waiver of Defaults: Conditions under which FFDG may terminate the subcontract and the non-waiver of defaults.
• Laws and Regulations: Compliance with applicable laws, dispute resolution processes (negotiation, mediation, arbitration), and applicable law (Illinois).
• Information Release and Notifications: Restrictions on information disclosure and requirements for notifying FFDG of certain actions or circumstances.
• Entire Agreement and Order of Precedence: Defines the scope of the subcontract agreement and how to resolve inconsistencies.
• Site and Facilities Access: Requirements for subcontractor personnel accessing Fermilab facilities or computer systems.
• Environment, Safety & Health (ES&H): Subcontractor responsibilities for protecting health and safety and complying with ES&H regulations.
• Stop-Work Order: Procedures and implications of a stop-work order issued by FFDG.
• Insurance: Requirements for insurance coverage.
• Information Technology Acquisitions: Compliance with IT security policies and requirements.
• Special Government Flow Down Provisions: Incorporation of various FAR and DEAR clauses applicable to commercial products and services, with specific requirements based on subcontract value.

This document is critical for bidders as it establishes the legal and contractual framework for any subcontract awarded. Potential bidders must review these terms and conditions to understand their rights, responsibilities, and obligations, including those related to performance, payment, liability, compliance, and dispute resolution. Failure to comply with these terms can lead to termination or other adverse actions. The extensive list of incorporated FAR and DEAR clauses highlights the regulatory environment and specific compliance requirements that will apply.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, titled "Subcontractor Annual Representations & Certifications (SARC)", is a form required by Fermi Forward Discovery Group, LLC for potential subcontractors. It collects essential business and compliance information to ensure adherence to U.S. Government contracting and subcontracting programs.

• Offeror Information: Collects details such as Offeror Name, Parent Company Name, address, contact information, EIN/TIN, DUNS #, and SAM.gov registration status.
• Business Category: Requires representation of ownership (U.S. Owned, Foreign Owned), operating structure (Corporation, LLC, Partnership, etc.), and common parent information.
• Small Business Classifications: Allows the offeror to self-certify as a Large Business, Small Business, or Foreign Business, and to select applicable diversity categories (e.g., Woman-Owned, Veteran-Owned, HUBZone).
• Executive Compensation: Gathers information on the top five executives' names, titles, and compensation if certain revenue thresholds from federal contracts are met, and if public access to this information is limited.
• Offeror Responsibility: Includes certifications regarding accounting system review, responsible offeror status (compliance with FAR 9.104), and policies on combating trafficking in persons.
• Employment Eligibility Verification: Requires confirmation of enrollment in or intent to enroll in E-Verify (FAR 52.222-54).
• Export/Import Control Certifications: Requires agreement to comply with U.S. export control laws and regulations.
• Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Certifications: Includes representations regarding limitations on pass-through charges for cost reimbursement subcontracts.
• Certification: A final section for a duly authorized representative to certify the accuracy of all statements.

This form is critical for any entity seeking to subcontract with Fermi Forward Discovery Group, LLC. Bidders must accurately complete all sections to demonstrate their eligibility, compliance, and business status. Failure to complete this form correctly may prevent a bid from being considered or a subcontract from being awarded. The information provided here will be used to assess the offeror's responsibility and compliance with federal regulations.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document, "Proposal Certifications," outlines various certifications and representations required from offerors for proposals submitted to Fermilab. It details specific clauses and requirements related to export/import control, the Buy American Act, independent price determination, lobbying, responsibility matters, combatting trafficking in persons, and patent rights. Offerors must review and complete these certifications as applicable to their proposal's value and nature.

• Certifications #1 (Required for all proposals ≥ $10,000): Covers Export/Import Control, Buy American Act (Construction Materials), and related definitions.
• Certifications #2 (Required for all proposals ≥ $150,000): Includes Certificate of Independent Price Determination, Certification and Disclosure Regarding Payments to Influence Certain Federal Transactions, Certification Regarding Responsibility Matters, and Anti-Kickback Procedures.
• Certifications #3 (Required for all proposals ≥ $550,000): Pertains to Combatting Trafficking in Persons and related compliance plans.
• Revision Table: Details changes made to the document across various revisions, including updates to clauses, name changes, and form field fixes.

This document is critical for bidders to understand and complete accurately. Failure to provide the required certifications can impact proposal evaluation and the ability to be considered responsible. Bidders must carefully review each section to determine applicability based on their proposal's scope, value, and the nature of the goods or services offered. The document guides offerors on how to represent their compliance with various federal regulations and policies.

Statement of Work (SOW)

Procurement of precast concrete shield blocks for the PIP-II Project.

• Manufacture and deliver fifty-eight (58) precast concrete shield blocks to Fermilab.

• Specific block types and quantities required:

  • A: 14
  • C: 3
  • D: 7
  • E: 4
  • H: 11
  • K: 10
  • L: 9

• Work includes furnishing all supervision, labor, materials, tools, plant, and appurtenances.

• Includes transportation, overhead, bonding costs, safety oversight, quality control oversight, and supervision.

• Work includes transportation and delivery of blocks to Fermilab.

• Subcontractor is responsible for managing, controlling, and documenting work compliance.

• Subcontractor must ensure adequate Quality Control services for work accomplished on- and off-site.

• Manufacturing at Subcontractor's production facility.

• Delivery to Fermilab for offloading (on-site location to be coordinated).

• Milestones:

  • Milestone 0 (Start): Purchase Order Issued (0 Calendar Days)
  • Milestone 1: Submittals (14 Calendar Days)
  • Milestone 2: Delivery Complete (70 Calendar Days)
  • Milestone 3 (Project Complete): Project Complete, including acceptance of as-built drawings and submittals (84 Calendar Days)

• All personnel entering/working at Fermilab require Real ID and Fermilab Badging.

• No materials or equipment will be furnished by FFDG (Government-Furnished Property).

• Proposal must include a breakdown of pricing per Block Type.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "SECTION 014200 – QUALITY REQUIREMENTS (For Services)", outlines the quality control and assurance requirements for subcontractors. It details the purpose of the quality program, the expected elements of a Corporate Quality Assurance Plan, and provides guidance for contractors who do not submit their own QA Plan (Appendix C).

• Purpose of Quality Program: Subcontractors must manage, control, and document work to ensure compliance with subcontract documents, including safety, testing, and inspection.
• Corporate Quality Assurance Plan: Bidders must submit a copy of their Corporate Quality Assurance Plan. Appendix A provides guidance on the expected elements, including:
  • Purpose, Roles, Responsibilities, and Authorities
  • Scope and Organizational Chart
  • Requirements Verification and Document Control
  • Submittals/Procurement, Material and Equipment Control
  • Procedures, Suspect/Counterfeit Items, Nonconformance Handling
  • Lessons Learned, Continuous Improvement
  • Inspection and Testing, Commissioning
• Appendix C (Alternative QA Plan): Provides a template for contractors without their own QA plan, covering:
  • Purpose, Quality Objectives
  • Roles (QA Representative, Project Manager, Foremen)
  • Submittals and Approvals
  • Inspection and Testing (Pre-Work, In-Process, Final)
  • Nonconforming Work, Documentation and Records
  • Corrective and Preventive Action, Training and Communication
  • Project Closeout

Bidders must provide a Corporate Quality Assurance Plan with their bid or proposal. Failure to do so may result in a non-responsive bid. Alternatively, bidders can adopt the provided QA Plan in Appendix C. This document is critical for understanding the quality standards and compliance requirements expected for the services being procured.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides detailed engineering drawings, plans, sections, and notes for various "PIP-II BTL Shield Blocks" manufactured by the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. It serves as a technical specification for the fabrication of these precast concrete blocks.

• Block Types: Details for multiple block types (A, C, D, E, H, K, L) are provided, including their dimensions, reinforcement, and specific features like anchor assemblies and hook pockets.
• Materials: Specifies materials for concrete (5,000 PSI minimum compressive strength), reinforcing bars (ASTM 615, Grade 60), and angles (ASTM A-36) with galvanized finish.
• Fabrication Details: Includes notes on concrete casting, saw cutting of angles, and application of stenciled identification markings (black paint on white background).
• Dimensional Tolerances: Outlines acceptable variations for block dimensions, projections, squareness, and anchor/insert locations.
• Weight Requirements: Specifies minimum finished block weights for rejection (e.g., Type A < 4720 lbs, Type C < 7590 lbs, Type D < 3760 lbs, Type E < 1840 lbs, Type H < 11350 lbs, Type K < 1210 lbs, Type L < 595 lbs).

This document is critical for any bidder involved in the fabrication or supply of these specialized shield blocks. It defines the exact specifications, materials, and quality control measures required for successful production. Bidders must ensure their manufacturing processes and final products strictly adhere to these detailed drawings and notes to meet contract requirements.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This document specifies the requirements for furnishing and delivering precast concrete shield blocks for the PIP II Absorber Shield Blocks project.

• Furnishing and delivery of precast reinforced concrete shielding blocks, including reinforcing bars, support chairs, forms, and shop/setting drawings.

• Materials and embedded items are specified on drawings.

• Manufacturers must specialize in precast concrete products and have at least five years of industry experience.

• All precast elements are to be cast at a single, regular manufacturing plant familiar with the type of elements.

• Subcontractor is responsible for examining drawings and specifications, including supplementary items not explicitly shown.

• Shop drawings detailing fabrication and installation are required.

• Design mixes for concrete must be submitted and approved.

• Preliminary tests of the design mix are required at an approved laboratory.

• Plant must maintain quality control data.

• Fermilab reserves the right to conduct slump tests, secure cylinder samples, and conduct reinforcement/embedment inspections with 48-hour notice.

• Rejected blocks due to defects will be replaced at no additional cost to Fermilab.

• Delivery is to a designated location on the Fermilab site.

• Materials:

  • Reinforcing Bars: ASTM A 615, Grade 60, deformed.
  • Concrete: Portland Cement (ASTM C 150, Type I or III), Fly Ash (ASTM C 618, Class C), Normal Weight Aggregates (ASTM C 33), potable water, admixtures (low chloride content).
  • Air Content for blocks: 2.5 to 4.5 percent.
  • Compressive Strength (28 Day): 5000 psi.
  • Maximum Water Cementitious Materials Ratio: 0.40.

• Fabrication:

  • Forms must be mortar-tight and strong enough to withstand concrete pressures.
  • Built-in anchorage devices must be accurately positioned.
  • Reinforcement must be cleaned, accurately positioned, supported, and secured.
  • Concrete must be placed continuously and consolidated properly.
  • Curing must comply with PCI MNL 116.
  • Unformed surfaces finished by trowel to a smooth, uniform finish.

• Delivery:

  • Blocks to be delivered to Fermilab site.
  • Off-loading by overhead crane or fork truck.
  • Transported on cribbing.
  • 48-hour notice of delivery required.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document contains engineering drawings that specify the dimensions, materials, and welding requirements for various components of the PIP-II 2KW Absorber Concrete Block Tube system. These drawings are essential for manufacturers to produce the specified parts accurately.

• Weldment Drawings: Detail the fabrication of absorber concrete block tube weldments, including specific dimensions, angles, and seam weld locations (e.g., F10245522, F10245550).
• Tube Drawings: Provide specifications for individual tube components, including outer diameter (OD), inner diameter (ID), wall thickness, and angled cuts (e.g., F10245516, F10245517, F10245519, F10245549, F10245551, F10245552, F10245586, F10245588, F10245589, F10245618, F10245620, F10245621, F10245642, F10245643, F10245646).
• Welding Notes: Standardized notes across multiple drawings specify that all welding must be performed by an AWS D1.1 qualified or certified welder, subject to visual inspection by an AWS certified welding inspector. Vendors are responsible for determining weld sequencing to minimize distortion and may suggest alternative weld preps subject to engineering approval.
• Material: Primarily 3" x 3" x .125 wall stainless steel for tube components.

These drawings are critical for any bidder intending to manufacture or supply the specified absorber concrete block tubes and weldments. They provide the precise technical specifications required for fabrication, quality control, and material selection. Bidders must carefully review these drawings to ensure they can meet all dimensional, material, and welding requirements.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document contains detailed engineering drawings, plans, sections, and notes for the PIP-II 2KW Absorber. It provides the necessary specifications for the fabrication and construction of these components.

• Multiple Views: Includes top, bottom, side, end, and section views for various absorber components.
• Extrusion Details: Specific information on the extrusion components, including dimensions and material.
• Reinforcement and Anchoring: Details on rebar placement, tie configurations, coil inserts, and anchor assemblies.
• General Notes: Outlines material specifications (concrete strength, rebar grade, angle material), casting procedures, and protection requirements.
• Dimensional Tolerances: Specifies acceptable variations for dimensions, projections, squareness, and anchor locations.
• Estimated Weights: Provides estimated weights for different sections of the absorber (e.g., Upstream: 3,300 lbs, Front: 3,000 lbs, Bottom: 16,200 lbs, Top: 8,050 lbs).

This document is critical for any bidder involved in the fabrication or construction of the PIP-II 2KW Absorber. It details the precise dimensions, materials, and construction methods required. Bidders must carefully review these drawings to understand the scope of work, material requirements, and quality control standards necessary for accurate bidding and successful execution.