Request for Information (RFI): Hydrostatic Testing Services for ANSUL 10lb ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers 1. Introduction The U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen is seeking information from qualified vendors regarding the availability of hydrostatic testing services for ANSUL 10lb ABC dry chemical fire extinguishers. This RFI aims to gather details on vendors' capabilities to perform hydrostatic tests in accordance with specific guidelines to ensure the safety and integrity of the equipment. The service provider must be able to carry out the work within a 7-day period. 2. Background The U.S. Embassy requires hydrostatic testing services to maintain the readiness and safety of its fire extinguishers. This service is essential for ensuring that the fire extinguishers can withstand their pressure ratings and function correctly in the event of a fire. 3. Description and Specifications Performing hydrostatic tests on an ANSUL 10lb ABC dry chemical fire extinguisher requires adherence to specific guidelines to ensure the safety and integrity of the equipment. The hydrostatic tests should be performed every 12 years by a certified hydrostatic testing facility. The testing facility shall familiarize itself with the ANSUL 10lb ABC dry chemical fire extinguisher's user manual and guidelines provided by the manufacturer and understand the specific requirements and procedures for conducting a hydrostatic test. The NFPA 10 requires the use of water for all hydrostatic testing, and the cylinder must be tested within a protective cage or behind a protective shield to ensure the technician’s safety. The function of a hydrostatic test is to ensure that the fire extinguisher can still withstand its pressure rating. When a fire extinguisher undergoes hydrostatic testing, it is filled above its pressure rating with water. At that point, the technician monitors the cylinder, looking for any drop in pressure. A drop in pressure during the hydrostatic test indicates that the fire extinguisher has a leak and should be permanently removed from service. 4. Scope of Work Task 1 – Preparation Gather necessary equipment: Obtain the required equipment for the hydrostatic test, including a hydrostatic test pump, pressure gauge, test manifold, safety equipment (gloves, goggles), and a water source. Visually inspect fire extinguisher: Inspect the extinguisher’s exterior. Anything that could compromise the integrity of the cylinder, from corrosion to deep dents, means that the extinguisher cannot be safely tested and should be removed from service. Prepare the fire extinguisher tube: Remove/open the pressure cartridge tube out from the cylinder, open the cylinder cap to remove the foray extinguisher powder from the tube, and temporarily store it in a bucket. Ensure that the fire extinguisher tube is empty, clean, free from any debris or residue, and all the foray extinguisher powder has been discharged or removed. Remove the valve and blow out any remaining foray powder with an air hose. Remove the extinguisher’s hose and replace it with the hydrotest/recharge adapter. Inspect the fire extinguisher’s interior: Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the fire extinguisher for any signs of damage, corrosion, dents, or leaks. Ensure that the cylinder, valve assembly, and other components are in proper condition. If any defects are detected, do not proceed with the hydrostatic test, and the fire extinguisher must be permanently removed from service. Task 2 - Hydrostatic Pressure Test Connect the test equipment: Attach the test manifold to the ANSUL 10 lbs. fire extinguisher. The manifold should have connection points for the pressure gauge and the hydrostatic test pump. Ensure that the connections are secure and leak-free. Fill the fire extinguisher with water: Connect the water source to the hydrostatic test pump. Open the valve and slowly fill the fire extinguisher cylinder with water until it is completely filled. Take care to avoid trapping air bubbles during the filling process. Pressurize the fire extinguisher: Gradually increase the pressure using the hydrostatic test pump until it reaches the specified test pressure recommended by ANSUL or the applicable regulations. Maintain the pressure: Once the desired test pressure is reached, maintain the pressure for a designated duration. Typically, a duration of 2 minutes is recommended for hydrostatic tests. Monitor for leaks and abnormalities: Closely observe the fire extinguisher during the test period for any signs of leakage, deformation, or other abnormalities. If any issues occur, immediately stop the test, release the pressure, and take appropriate safety measures. Release the pressure: After the specified test duration, slowly release the pressure from the fire extinguisher cylinder using the hydrostatic test pump. Ensure that the pressure is released gradually to prevent sudden decompression. Drain the water: Completely drain the water from the fire extinguisher cylinder, ensuring there is no residual water left inside. If a fire extinguisher fails the hydrostatic test, it cannot be put back into use. Task 3 - Final Inspection Perform a final inspection: Conduct a final visual inspection of the ANSUL 10lb fire extinguisher to check for any changes, damages, or leaks that may have occurred during the hydrostatic test. Ensure that all components are in proper working condition. Replace disposable parts like the extinguisher’s old valve stem and O-ring and install the discharge hose. Refill the cylinder with the foray extinguisher powder and install the pressure cartridge tube. Install the tamper seal and post the service collar, ID, and labels to certify that the fire extinguisher is ready to return to service. 5. Deliverables Contractor will ensure that the fire extinguishers that successfully pass hydrostatic testing are returned to the Embassy’s Facility Management Department in “ready to use” condition. Any extinguishers that do not successfully pass hydrostatic testing should include a report describing the failure and then be returned to the Facility Management Department. 6. Duration of Services The duration of service will vary based on the availability of extinguishers requiring testing, vendor testing queue, and the time to test. Generally, a grouping of 5-10 extinguishers can be tested and returned to the Facilities Department within 1 week. 7. Submission of Information Interested vendors are requested to provide the following information: Company name, address, and contact details. Certification and accreditation details. A description of your experience and capabilities in performing hydrostatic testing services. Availability and estimated timeframes for completing hydrostatic tests on batches of 5-10 extinguishers. Any additional information that demonstrates your ability to meet the requirements outlined in this RFI. 8. Contact Information Please submit your responses and any questions regarding this RFI to: U.S. Embassy Copenhagen Attn: Procurement Team
[email protected] Responses are requested by July 15, 2024. We appreciate your interest and look forward to your response. Note: This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for bids, proposals, or quotations. The U.S. Embassy reserves the right to determine how to proceed based on the information received.