J--Synthetic belting for use in fish screening devices.

NA The Bureau of Reclamation intends to negotiate on a sole source basis with INTRALOX INC., Harahan Louisiana. The proposed purchase/ action is to assist The Yakima Field Office (UCA), Bureau of Reclamation (USBR/Reclamation), Department of the Interior in the re fabrication of a rotary fish screening device.Silt problems preside on numerous sites not only in the Yakima Basin but in all areas of the Pacific Northwest. Screen programs have been in search of a material that would withstand the silt abuse for the past 10-15 years. Even though fish screen / passage is not a new concept with salmonid / anadromous species, it was not until NMFS set specific standards in the 1980's that gave way for the commercial market to experiment with materials that would meet this criteria. This research has made available stainless steel fabrics and coverings that are the most commonly used material, but due to silt and abrasive factors there was a need for a better product. Intralox Corp. has taken the field data and advice from all Northwest Screen Programs and has developed a synthetic interlocking belting product that not only meets NMFS criteria but also meets the demanding need of the environmental conditions of the Pacific Northwest. U.S. Patent # 4,925,016 for Intralox Corp. demonstrates why this is the preferred material for traveling belt screens in the Pacific Northwest. Due to debris and high water velocity the most commercial belting would dislodge itself from the frame and sprockets causing the screen to become nonfunctional, down time could be from several hours to several days depending on the damage to the belting. In field maintenance and repair situations this system is invaluable to the laborer, by being able to quickly repair only the damaged piece of belting instead of removing the belting and then making the repair. The intended purchase involves the following parts: 1) Series 1800 10.5" (13T) sprockets with a 2.5" bore 2)Carbon steel split collar retainers 2.5" 3) Series 1800 belting, flush mesh top black UV resistant acetal / 41' X 83.8" The government believes that only one responsible source can provide the services listed above that will satisfy the agency needs. Any firm or individual that believes it can furnish the items described above are encouraged to give written notification to the Contracting Officer. Supporting evidence must be furnished, in sufficient detail to demonstrate the ability to comply with the above requirements, better than or equal to Intralox U.S. Patent # 4,925,016. All responses received by close of business August 11, 2003 will be considered by the Government. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed action based on responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Inquiries will be accepted by Fax at (509) 454-5615, Attention: Connie Morgan or by electronic mail at [email protected].