SOLICITATION NOTICE
71 -- Agile Exhibit Display Case System - RFP
- Notice Date
- 4/24/2013
- Notice Type
- Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
- NAICS
- 337215
— Showcase, Partition, Shelving, and Locker Manufacturing
- Contracting Office
- Library of Congress, Contracts Services, Contracts Section, 101 Independence Ave SE, LA-325, Washington, District of Columbia, 20540-9411
- ZIP Code
- 20540-9411
- Solicitation Number
- LCLSM13Q0028
- Archive Date
- 5/24/2013
- Point of Contact
- LaTalya Palmer, Phone: 202-707-3117
- E-Mail Address
-
lpal@loc.gov
(lpal@loc.gov)
- Small Business Set-Aside
- N/A
- Description
- Past Performance Form Agile Case Vertical Sketch Agile Case Open Sketch Agile Cased Closed Sketch RFP This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in Subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; proposals are being requested and a written solicitation will not be issued. ALL QUESTIONS ARE DUE BY MAY 3, 2013 5:00 PM. est SUBMIT ALL QUESTIONS VIA EMAIL TO: LaTalya Palmer at lpal@loc.gov The Library requests the services of an exhibit case systems manufacturer to design, fabricate, and deliver a flexible, easily transportable, secure, museum-quality, exhibit case system consisting of eight (8) identical units that will support the temporary display of high value objects in a secure and environmentally safe manner throughout The Library of Congress Capitol Hill Campus, including the Jefferson Building, Madison Building, and Adams Building. The following scope of work, in addition to the attached drawings, provides a description of the specifications and performance requirements for the new exhibit cases to be used. The purchase of the Agile Display Cases supports LC Strategic Goals to acquire, preserve, and provide access to a universal collection of knowledge and the record of America's creativity. GENERAL AND SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS The exhibit case systems manufacturer will work closely with the Library's Interpretive Programs Office staff during all stages of design development, materials and detailed drawing review, fabrication, on-site factory inspection, delivery and final approval. A. QUANTITY AND DESCRIPTION: The selected vendor shall fabricate and deliver (8) identical table top style exhibit cases to be manufactured to a "museum or archival quality" with approved materials and proven methods of construction subject to the review and approval of the Library's Conservation Division and Interpretive Programs Office. (Nominal overall dimensions: 60" Length x 34" Width x 54"Height) See attached drawings for additional information. B. MANUFACTURER REQUIREMENTS The successful bidder is required to possess specific technical expertise and proven ability in the manufacture of exhibit furnishings of an archival quality: A. The manufacturer shall demonstrate a minimum record of seven years experience fabricating and delivering similar products to museums, libraries, and cultural institutions. B. The manufacturer shall assure availability of additional cases, replacement parts and accessories for a minimum ten year period. C. The manufacturer shall offer a minimum one-year warranty. B.1. Submittals (Or Prequalifying Criteria) The Offeror shall submit the following information as part of their proposal for their solicitation: A. Three (3) references and examples of archival exhibition case installations of similar scope and complexity in major museums, universities, libraries or other relevant projects with references, details and photographs. Please provide the following information for the three (3) Federal contracts. (1) Name of contracting activity; (2) Contract number; (3) Contract type; (4) Total contract value; (5) Contracting officer and telephone number; (6) Program manager, telephone number, and facsimile number; (7) Description of project; *Past Performance will be determined to be relevant if the performance involves work that is the same or similar in nature, size, and complexity to the services being procured under this Solicitation B. Descriptive literature (as applicable), shop drawings and color samples. C. An example of a similar exhibition case currently in use Alternate proposals deviating from the design drawings and specifications for elements such as but not limited to: operating hardware, fixed glass, locking mechanisms, glass joints, method and means of attachment of glass to upper and lower frames and other components affecting the appearance or function of the cases must be submitted to the OCGM Contracting Officer for review and approval. Shop drawings The successful bidder shall submit shop drawings for approval showing the details of construction and method of installation for each item shown or specified, including: Hardware and locking devices, Seals, Materials, Structural frame, Finishes, Lighting details, Display platform, Text holder. DESIGN FEATURES C.1. Case construction The exhibit case infrastructure shall be constructed of welded steel and/or aluminum framework. Glass case exterior construction shall be without frames, visibly obtrusive hardware, mullions, or vertical posts for an unimpeded view. Exterior cladding will be a combination of metal trim, plywood/MDF core covered with a wood veneer or composite laminate. Glazing All glass to be a white (low iron content) 3-ply laminate with an ultraviolet light (UV) coated polycarbonate interlayer. Nominal thickness = ½" (11.5 mm). Acceptable glass trade names include: Optiwhite, Starphire, Diamant, and UtraWhite To reduce reflection, Amiran glass by Schott with a non-reflective coating will be added. Recommended glass laminate configuration: - 6mm (3/16") FT PPG Starphire Glass or 6mm Amiran Water White Glass (low iron) - 1.27mm (.05") Solutia Saflex Hurricane Interlayer DM-J1 Clear - 6mm (3/16") FT PPG Starphire Glass or 6mm Amiran Water White Glass (low iron) with anti- reflective coating on exterior surfaces Case Interior Access The table top style exhibit cases shall be accessed through one of two methods: a hinged or telescoping glass vitrine top. One person shall be capable of opening/closing the cases without risk of personal injury or damage to the objects. When open, the vitrine top must remain in a secure fixed position to allow for the safe positioning/removal of the objects and text labels. Minimum fixed opening = 15" Doors Operable glass door assemblies or vitrine style glass tops are considered an integral part of the display case system, engineered and fabricated to perfectly align, mate, and seal with the components of the display case. To avoid damage to objects, glass doors shall not recede into the display case when opening. Locks The Library of Congress recommends a two-stage locking system: 1. The first stage mechanically secures the door in place and seals the case 2. The second stage prevents access to the mechanical locking system This approach adds a level of security for open area viewing (as opposed to exhibition galleries) and it eases operation, which avoids pressure on locks that may lead to failure. Two distinct key sets should be used to separate the maintenance areas (I.e. lighting access, desiccant tray), from display chambers. Finishes - Exposed metal surfaces to be anodized or have a powder-coated paint finish, (RAL) colors to be determined at the completion of the design review phase. - Solid wood veneer to be Maple, Honduran Mahogany, or equivalent - Composite materials to be Corian or an equivalent solid core product. Gasket Design Gasket design must and maintain a tight seal, to meet requirements for humidity control and dust resistance. To maximize the performance of a well-sealed case, the design must incorporate moisture-impermeable construction materials along with the precise fitting of construction joints and seams. The material must be rigid enough to maintain its shape while flexible enough to allow for repeated case openings. The ability of the display case to provide a tightly sealed environment is a critical design function therefore documentation on the Air Exchange Rate (AER) in the artifact chamber must be submitted. As the artifact chamber must be tightly sealed, emissions or off gassing from construction or finishing materials can become concentrated within the case. Therefore, all materials, finishes or coatings and adhesives must be selected in accordance with, reviewed, and accepted by the Library as described in the Materials Specifications and Testing section below. Lighting Since the viewing locations within the Jefferson Building will vary, an internal lighting system must be part of the overall case design. One of two lighting systems shall be mounted within the display case chamber based upon the recommendation of the manufacturer with approval from the Library: a flexible, focusable, dimmable fiber-optic lighting system or LED thermally-efficient light bars. Acceptable lamps must not emit ultra-violet radiation below 400nm and must not emit infra red radiation to avoid generating heat within the artifact chamber. The addition of a motion sensor light switch will reduce the overall light exposure on the display artifacts. Alarms Depending upon the display case location within the Library of Congress Capitol Hill Campus, the exhibit cases may employ a wireless security system mounted within the gallery to be linked back to a central security station. As a result, the exhibit cases may include the following devices: magnetic contacts fitted to opening panels, break glass detectors, vibration detectors. Electrical/Data Access Electrical and Data floor outlets are distributed throughout the open public spaces, such as, the Jefferson Building Great Hall and Mezzanine whereas; wall outlets provide the only source of electrical power in the smaller meeting rooms, such as, the Madison Building Mumford Room, Madison Hall, and Pickford Theater foyer. As a result, the exhibit cases will need to provide removable vertical panel(s) for floor access, as well as, side access cable grommets for wall outlets. The LOC project team will consider alternative design solutions proposed by the vendor. Silica Gel and Pollutant Scavenger The display space shall accommodate the Library's preferred desiccant beneath a ventilated deck with separate access to the desiccant storage compartment isolated from the display chamber. The case design must provide an area sufficient to hold one pound of silica gel per cubic foot of display. The area that holds the silica must be adequately ventilated to ensure circulation within the artifact display chamber. Additional Features The historic 1897 Thomas Jefferson Building with marble floors and decorative elements throughout, as well as, the Adams Building and Madison Building terrazzo floors, imposes some additional requirements with regard to transportability. The exhibit cases must include locking casters or a separate lifting mechanism to allow easy and safe movement between floors, over thresholds, and across different types of floor surfaces without damage to the historic fabric of the buildings or exhibit cases. Floor levelers must be included to compensate for uneven floor surfaces and to elevate casters if needed. In addition, the exhibit cases, with truck lifting mechanism if necessary, along with personnel must fit into a Jefferson Building passenger elevator, the smallest physical space that determines the maximum exterior dimensions of the display cases. Dimensions: a) JB interior elevator dimensions (73" Length x 69.5" Width x 92" Height) b) Elevator door dimensions (70" Length x 42" Width x 81" Height) MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS and TESTING The vendor must submit product specifications and MSDS sheets where applicable for all case components including wall panels, glazing, paints, coatings, caulks, adhesives including tapes, gaskets, fabrics no less than 60 days prior to the start of fabrication. The Library may require product samples for analytic testing to ensure that original collection materials will not be harmed by exposure to exhibit case materials. Results from recent testing conducted by or for other cultural institutions may be acceptable as determined by the Preservation Research and Testing Division. Barriers and Sealants Film or sheet barriers made from inert material such as aluminum are the preferred means of segregating materials that potentially off gas such as wood or composite board from the artifact compartment. If liquid sealant use is necessary the specific product must be reviewed as stated in the general conditions above. All products must be non-acidic at the time of application and neutral curing. Prohibited barrier and sealant ingredients include but are not limited to: oils, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, and polyvinyl acetate. Acrylic or latex paints may not be used as barrier coating as they are too porous to create an adequate seal. Textiles All fabrics must be approved prior to use and tested as stated in general conditions above unless recent test results are available. Fabrics must be stretched and stapled or sewn; adhesive attachment is not permitted. Examples of fabric categories most likely to pass testing include: undyed and unbleached cotton, undyed and unbleached linen, 100% Polyester or cotton-polyester blends, acrylic felt. The following categories of fabrics are unacceptable: wool, silk, and jute. Additives including but not limited to fire retardants, sulfur-based dyes, wrinkle inhibitors, phosphates, and surface finishes are prohibited. Gaskets Gasket material must be composed of stable elastomers. General categories of acceptable elastomers include silicone rubber, cellular silicone sponge (PDMS), and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). Unstable elastomeric products are not acceptable for use including but not limited to: polyurethane foam, natural rubber, or neoprene. Gaskets- Attachment Adhesives used to attach gasket materials may produce harmful, volatile emissions, and/ or the adhesive system may lose bonding ability over time. Therefore mechanical hardware or a channel design must be employed if possible without compromising the performance of the gaskets. If an adhesive gasket is necessary than either the self-adhesive included as an ingredient of the commercial gasket or the adhesive used by the fabricator must be reviewed. Caulks and Putties Two-part Silicone (RTV 2) or acrylic caulks are generally acceptable for use but must be reviewed as described in the general conditions listed above. All caulks must be neutral-curing, and ammonia-free. Unacceptable materials: One part silicones (RTV 1), butyl rubber, linseed oil based putties, latex caulking that contains volatile fungicides (used in kitchen and bathroom applications), and polyurethane spray foams and polyurethane caulks. Hinges Hinge and other operating mechanisms shall not require a lubricant that might off gas within the display environment. PROHIBITED CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS Including but not limited to the following: a. Oil-based paints or varnishes, modified alkyd paints. b. Any material that emits formaldehyde including, but not limited to, plywood, particle board, hardboard, and plastic laminates. c. Acid-curing silicones, sealants and adhesives. d. Vinyl products, including, but not limited to, unstable chlorine-containing polymers (i.e. polyvinyl chloride, and Saran). e. Polyurethane-based products, including, but not limited to, paints, varnishes, and foams. f. Asbestos, sulfur, and lead-containing materials. g. Cellulose nitrate containing materials (i.e. lacquers and adhesives). h. Cellulose acetate-containing fabrics and films. QUALITY CONTROL Glazing Glass shall be clear with no manufacturer's marks, stamps or labels. Glass shall be free of surface flaws, such as, scratches, uneven thickness, or missing anti-reflective coating. Vertical glass edges shall be precision mitered and sealed with an inert continuous seal. Glass panes shall be properly aligned to ensure smooth edges. Glass laminate adhesive shall be free of visible bubbles. FABRICATION Case fabrication must be scheduled to ensure that all components have at least 30 days to off gas any volatile chemicals before installation at the Library of Congress. CONTRACT IMPLEMENTATION H.1. INTRODUCTORY PLANNING and SCHEDULING (1 day) A. The Library's COR shall schedule a kick-off meeting with the contractor immediately after the award of the contract to introduce key members of the project team, review the overall goals and deliverables, and to establish a mutually agreeable schedule. B. The contractor shall meet with LOC project team as needed to review selected materials, production details, conservation and security requirements, and to discuss issues pertinent to the exhibit cases. H.2. DESIGN DEVELOPMENT (30 days) The contractor shall create a set of design development drawings for review by the LOC project team to confirm a complete understanding of design intent.. H.3. FINAL DESIGN, MATERIAL TESTING, and APPROVAL (45 days) The contractor shall produce a final set of detailed construction drawings and specifications, including material cut sheets as requested. The LOC project team will promptly review all submissions and respond immediately to the vendor with any questions. Material testing will be completed during this period, if necessary. The contractor shall not purchase project specific material or begin fabrication until the final design has been approved by LOC and the go ahead conveyed through the COR. H.4. FABRICATION and INSPECTION (60-75 days) Member(s) of the LOC project team will visit the production site during fabrication of the exhibit cases to inspect for conformity of the product prior to the initial shipment. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE The period of performance for this contract is date of award through September 30, 2013 CONTRACT TYPE The Government intends to award a firm fixed price contract as a result of this solicitation.
- Web Link
-
FBO.gov Permalink
(https://www.fbo.gov/spg/LOC/CS/CS1/LCLSM13Q0028/listing.html)
- Place of Performance
- Address: SHIPPING, DELIVERY (to F.O.B. DESTINATION), and ACCEPTANCE (15 days) The exhibit cases shall be delivered F.O.B. destination to:, Library of Congress, John Adams Building, James Madison Building, or Thomas Jefferson Building (as specified), 101 Independence Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20540, The contractor must adhere to all Library of Congress and U.S. Capitol Police physical security protocols and offsite screening procedures. These requirements may change during the course of the contract and it is the responsibility of the contractor to stay in compliance with current regulations., Trucks making deliveries to the LOC loading docks must meet the following minimum clearances: 13 ft high, 9 ft wide and 20 ft long. Contractor vehicles exceeding that limitation shall not be permitted access to the Loading Dock area. The Contractor shall ensure that ceiling; doors or walls are not disturbed or damaged. The Contractor shall be held responsible for all costs of repairs to ceiling, doors, etc. and any secondary damage resulting from that damage. The maximum ceiling height inside the loading dock is 14'-8'., United States
- Record
- SN03044287-W 20130426/130424234508-b70c4aeff42b26c56463d47b06d262bc (fbodaily.com)
- Source
-
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