Replace Chiller Bldg 89

Other / Unclassified

This document outlines the detailed commissioning (Cx) specifications and plan for the replacement of an air-cooled chiller system in Building 89 at USDA Miami, FL. It specifies the requirements for testing and verifying the new chiller's operation, ensuring it meets design intent, manufacturer requirements, performance criteria, energy efficiency standards, and USDA facility needs. The document includes a comprehensive commissioning checklist, a formal commissioning plan, a BAS point-to-point verification table, a step-by-step startup script, and acceptance criteria.

This document is crucial for bidders as it details the exact performance, testing, and verification standards the new chiller system must meet. Key aspects include:

• System Requirements: Minimum 156.2-ton capacity (Daikin ACCH160T or approved equal), 460V, 3-phase electrical service, specific chilled water temperatures (54°F entering, 44°F leaving), and flow rates (350 GPM).
• Environmental Compliance: Requirements for saltwater-corrosion-resistant construction and epoxy-coated condenser fins due to the seacoast environment.
• Testing Protocols: Detailed procedures for system startup, functional performance testing, refrigerant system verification, control system functionality, safety system testing, BAS integration, chilled water balancing, and a minimum 72-hour continuous operation test.
• Deliverables: Specific documentation required, including a comprehensive commissioning report, manufacturer startup certification, warranty activation, and as-built configurations.
• BAS Integration: Mandates full communication and verification of points between the chiller controller and the facility's Building Automation System (BAS), adhering to USDA cybersecurity requirements.

Bidders must understand these commissioning requirements to accurately scope their proposals, ensure their proposed equipment and installation plans meet all specified performance and environmental criteria, and account for the rigorous testing and documentation processes.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items, issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for a chiller replacement at Bldg 89, USDA facility in Miami, Florida. The acquisition is set-aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB).

• Decommissioning and removal of existing air-cooled Smardt chiller(s).

• Furnishing and installation of a new air-cooled chiller system.

• Complete integration with existing building systems.

• Commissioning of the new system.

• Training personnel to ensure seamless facility operations.

• Anticipated award type: Firm fixed-priced contract.

• The government intends to make one award.

• Offerors must submit pricing for all items to be considered responsive.

• Offerors agree to hold prices firm for 60 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of offers.

• Submission instructions include a transmittal summary letter, signed solicitation with completed pricing, proof of HVAC company licensing and certification, and at least one relevant reference.

• Failure to submit required documents may render a quote non-responsive.

• Evaluation will be based on meeting all requirements and representing the best value to the Government, in accordance with FAR 12.203.

• This acquisition is set-aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB).

• The North American Industry Classification Standard (NAICS) Code is 238220, Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors, with a small business size standard of $19,000,000.

• Attachments include a Performance Work Statement and Wage Determination.

• A site visit is scheduled for 2/20/26 at 1:30 PM EST. Registration is required by 2/20/26 at 0900 AM EST via email to david.reynolds2@usda.gov.

• The document incorporates numerous FAR clauses by reference, including those related to commercial items, contractor responsibilities, and small business concerns.

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

This project aims to replace aging air-cooled chillers and upgrade the building automation system (BAS) at the USDA facility in Miami, Florida. The goal is to install modern, energy-efficient chillers and an integrated, automated BAS to ensure reliable environmental conditions for agricultural research, food safety, and mission operations, while complying with federal energy management and sustainability guidelines.

• Pre-Construction: Site assessment, planning, scheduling, permit acquisition, and a pre-construction meeting.

• Demolition and Removal: Safely decommission, isolate, and remove existing Smardt chiller(s), including refrigerant recovery in compliance with EPA regulations, and disposal of all removed materials.

• Installation of New Chiller: Furnish and install a new air-cooled chiller (preferably Quantech QTC4150S or Daikin ACCH-160T, with enhanced corrosion resistance for saltwater environments). This includes connecting chilled water and condensate piping, completing all electrical and control wiring, and integrating with the existing BAS.

• Testing and Commissioning: Conduct comprehensive system startup, functional testing (including a minimum 72-hour continuous operation test), performance verification, and provide a commissioning report. Manufacturer's startup certification and warranty activation are required.

• Training and Documentation: Provide on-site operator training covering normal operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Deliver a complete documentation package including O&M manuals, warranties, as-built drawings, commissioning reports, and a spare parts list.

• New chiller must meet Energy Star Efficiency Requirements.

• Chiller must recover from power loss to full capacity in under 4 minutes and from standby in less than 2 minutes.

• Continuous operation test for a minimum of 72 hours.

• All work must meet applicable codes and manufacturer specifications.

• Place of Performance: USDA Agricultural Research Service, Subtropical Horticulture Research, 13601 Old Cutler Road, Miami, FL 33158.

• Period of Performance: All work must be completed within 120 days of the Notice to Proceed.

• Security: Contractors must adhere to site security protocols, including sign-in/out procedures, visitor badges, and COVID-19 screening. Access is restricted to authorized areas and normal duty hours.

• Personnel: All personnel must pass required security clearances. Work must be performed by licensed and certified technicians.

• Compliance: Adherence to all federal, state, and local regulations, including EPA refrigerant management and environmental disposal standards.

• Insurance: Maintain appropriate insurance and bonding.

• Brand Names: Substitutions for specified brands (e.g., Quantech, Daikin) are permitted if substantially equivalent, but require submission of detailed cut sheets and supporting documentation for USDA approval.

• Experience: Contractor should have a track record in tropical climates and existing installations in Miami-Dade. Service availability within 60 miles is required.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Wage Determination (No. 2015-4579, Revision No. 31) issued by the U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, under the Service Contract Act. It establishes the minimum wage rates and fringe benefits required for various occupations performing work in Florida Counties of Columbia, Hamilton, Lafayette, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, and Taylor.

• Lists numerous occupational codes and titles, along with their corresponding minimum hourly wage rates.
• Specifies fringe benefits required, including Health & Welfare rates ($5.55 per hour or $222.00 per week) and provisions related to Executive Order 13706.
• Includes details on paid sick leave, vacation, and holidays.
• Outlines specific conditions and differentials for hazardous pay and uniform allowances.
• Provides guidance on the conformance process for unlisted occupations.

This document is critical for bidders to understand the labor costs associated with performing services in the specified geographic area. It dictates the minimum wages and benefits that must be paid to employees working on a federal contract covered by the Service Contract Act. Bidders must incorporate these wage rates and benefit requirements into their proposals to ensure compliance and accurate cost estimation.