Sources Sought for External Load Device

Sources Sought Notice for External Load Device THIS IS A SOURCES SOUGHT NOTICE ONLY. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL. THERE WILL NOT BE A SOLICITATION, SPECIFICIATIONS OR DRAWINGS AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME. This is a sources sought request for information (RFI) for the purpose of conducting market research to identify businesses that possess the expertise, capabilities, facilities and experience to design and build a custom designed machine, hereafter referred to as an External Load Device (ELD). The ELD is designed to provide axial loading on an existing rotating (bi-directional) horizontal propulsion shaft line so as to test and qualify shipboard propulsion components in a laboratory setting. The ELD shall be capable of attaching to a mating shaft line flange rotating at a maximum speed of 200 RPM, in either direction, while providing a continuous axial thrust of 1.5 million pounds force. The ELD shall be able to produce the rated axial load through an extension of 0 to 2 inches. The ELD shall be capable of supporting 50,000 pounds of radial load in any direction. The ELD shall also be capable of producing all rated loads in a misaligned state not to exceed 1/3 of a degree. The load carrying bearings of the ELD shall be of the low friction type such as roller or spherical roller to minimize friction during operation and start-up. The overall dimensions of the ELD are generally limited to 8 foot high by 8 feet wide and 5 foot deep and is expected to weigh in the 10 to 20 ton range. The ELD shall be simple and robust in design and housed entirely in a steel frame. The minimum expected design life of the ELD would be 10,000 hours before requiring any major overhaul. The government will provide auxiliary lubrication, cooling and hydraulic pressure to the ELD if required. This is not a Request for Proposal (RFP) or an Invitation for Bid (IFB), and shall not be construed as a commitment by the Government to issue a solicitation, or ultimately award a contract. Please note: The Navy will not be responsible for any costs incurred by interested parties in responding to this RFI. Response is due no later than 06/30/2015. POCs for informational inquiries: Kevin Crouchley 215.897.8926 [email protected]