This synopsis is a Request for Information (RFI) notice only. This is not a Request for Proposal (RFP). No solicitation is being issued at this time and this notice shall not be construed as a commitment by the Government to issue a solicitation or ultimately award a contract. No entitlement to payment of direct or indirect costs or charges to the Government will arise as a result of a response to this notice. DUE: Written responses to this RFI synopsis should be submitted no later than fifteen (15) calendar days from the publication date of this notice. Technical Point of Contact (POC): Matthew Larger, phone (937) 255-7210 ext. 3710, email: Matthew.Larger@wpafb.af.mil. DESC: RFI for sealant removal methods, POC: Noelle Spalding, CONTRACT NEGOTIATOR, phone (937) 255-3385 ext. 3108, email: Noelle.Spalding@wpafb.af.mil; Larry Doelker, CONTRACTING OFFICER, phone (937) 255-7210 ext. 3810, email: lawrence.Doelker@wpafb.af.mil. (This is not a Research and Development [R&D] announcement). - o Technical Objective: The current Air Force method of removing damaged/old sealant from fuel cells is primarily with plastic scrapers, which is man-hour intensive. A requirement exists for new methods that are explosion-proof, spark-proof, can be used in enclosed fuel cells and/or around fuel vapors safely, and will significantly reduce man-hours spent removing old sealant. Potential solutions could include new chemical processes or powered tools designed to remove sealant safely. Interested companies must submit a capabilities statement for each concept not to exceed ten (10) pages per concept. A brief summary is all that is needed versus a detailed proposal. If more information is necessary, you will be contacted. (NOTE: Format is 12 pt font, single-spaced, 1-inch margins, no ALL CAPS). Capabilities statements must provide the following information: 1. Cross-Cutting (Multi-Platform) Applicability: List USAF aircraft to which this concept will apply and how. 2. POCs: Include name, company name, phone number, e-mail address, and mailing address for the subject matter expert for each concept. 3. Concept Objective and Approach: Provide reference to the specific aging aircraft requirement and number (listed and attached to this synopsis) this concept is addressing. Describe how the concept will resolve the issue. 4. Implementation Costs/Strategy: Provide Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM). Describe actions necessary to put the product into the users hands. This should include transition/implementation costs, training, maintenance planning, etc. Also provide a year-by-year breakout of development and transition costs associated with the concept. 5. Concept Benefits: Explain how the Air Force will benefit from using this concept. The benefit can be qualitative as well as quantitative. Suggested explanations can take the form of a) Best estimate for return on investment (ROI), along with the payback period if attainable at current stage of concept development (identify cost avoidance and savings separately, as applicable), b) Improvement to aircraft availability (mission capable rate [%], percentage depot throughput [%], maintenance man-hours [time or %]); and, c) Reduction in risk to safety (e.g. MIL-STD-882D). 6. Background Research: Synopsize previous efforts that have led to the current state of the concept. The proposed concept should be at least a system/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment. 7. Deliverables and Targeted User: Describe the deliverables (hardware, software, prototype, process/procedures, analysis/modification tools, equipment, manuals, tech orders changes, etc.) the user will receive and include the expected timeframe/schedule. Describe the intended user (depot maintenance, field maintenance, depot engineer, long-range planner, etc.). 8. Collaborations and Partnerships: Please identify the major organizations participating in the concept. 9. Indicate similar/preliminary work already underway. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL SUBMISSION. This is a market research tool to determine the availability and adequacy of potential sources. Firms responding to this announcement should indicate their size, particularly if they are a small business, a socially and economically disadvantaged business, a woman-owned business, a HUB zone small business concern, a minority institution, and should also indicate if the firm is foreign-owned. The North American Industry Classification System (NAIC) code 336413, Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment, applies to this acquisition. In addition, interested sources must respond with a complete capability/qualification package describing their technical expertise and experience, personnel, and facilities. The response should also identify key technical risks, issues, and any partnering arrangements that may be considered. All parties are asked to provide a telephone number, an e-mail address, and a facsimile number in their response. Information marked Proprietary will be protected and will not be divulged unless mandated by existing laws. This information should be sent to AASS/PK, 2145 Monahan Way, Bldg 28, Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433-7017 not later than fifteen (15) days from the publication of this notice.
