Polyalphaolefin (POA) Coolant Carts
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 Department of the Air Force, specifically AFLCMC WAUK, is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) for Polyalphaolefin (PAO) Liquid Coolant Carts. These carts are required to support ground maintenance operations for the F-22 aircraft at Hill Air Force Base, UT, by cooling, cleaning, and recirculating PAO liquid coolant when the aircraft's Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) is unavailable. The Government anticipates needing 15 such mobile carts if this requirement leads to a funded solicitation. Responses are due March 11, 2026, by 4:00 PM MST.
Scope of Work
The RFI seeks information on robust, mobile, commercially available or near-production-ready PAO coolant carts capable of operating in diverse environmental conditions. The primary function is to maintain the F-22's PAO system during ground operations.
Key Requirements
- Functional: Cool, clean, and recirculate PAO coolant; 80-gallon reservoir; 5-micron filtration; "Service Mode" and "Reservoir fill mode"; De-aeration system.
- Operational: Ambient Operating Temperature: 0°F to 125°F; Certified per MIL-STD-810G; Minimum 8-hour runtime at full load.
- Power Source: Dual-powered (electric and diesel engine), supporting 440-480V/60Hz @ 120 Amps or 380V/50 Hz @ 152 Amps.
- Mobility: Trailer-mounted, compatible with standard tow vehicles, qualified per AS8090, air transportable per MIL-STD-1791C.
- System & Interface: PLC controlled with color touch-screen (EMI-hardened, arctic glove compatible); 50 ft delivery hoses; mechanical refrigeration; quick-disconnect adapters for F-22; 120VAC convenience receptacle; external and internal lighting.
- Certifications & Compliance: EMI qualified to MIL-STD-461E; ATEX compliant – Zone 2; NFPA 70 NEC Compliant - Class I Div 2.
- Performance: Cooling Capacity: 0-50 kW; Cooling Liquid Flow & Pressure: Variable up to 28 GPM @ 150 PSI; Cooling Liquid Delivery Temperature: 55°F ± 5°F (variable 40°F-70°F).
Submission Details
Interested parties should submit:
- Company overview (CAGE code, experience).
- Detailed proposed solution (specs, datasheets).
- Compliance matrix.
- Manufacturing/delivery capabilities and lead times.
- Indication of COTS/modified COTS/new design. Submissions must be sent electronically to james.recker@us.af.mil with the subject line "RFI Response: PAO Liquid Coolant Cart".
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Anticipated Quantity: 15 carts (if funded solicitation occurs)
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: March 11, 2026, 4:00 PM MST
- Published: February 11, 2026
Additional Notes
This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or guarantee a future award. The TLD Group Model LCU-050 is referenced as an example system.