Fire extinguishers. The Air Commodities Team is the equipment sponsor for multi-platform aircraft fire suppression equipment. The Authority has a requirement to provide a replacement for its aircraft fleet hand held fire extinguisher system capability. This capability is required to operate on fixed and rotary wing aircraft of all sizes; both jet and piston engine powered, modern and historic. The legacy capability is currently provided by a 2.59kg (total mass) portable fire extinguisher, 375mm in total length and maximum 76mm in diameter. It is supported by mounting brackets of various types. The replacement system shall provide an identical installation of halon extinguisher capability or a halon replacement that has been certified as demonstrating identical or better fire fighting performance. The system must comply to BS 7867 as a minimum. The extinguisher must be certified as approved for use on all aircraft types by EASA or FAA. The replacement system shall be of near identical mass and dimensions to this legacy system to allow for integration onto host aircraft platforms without the need to carry out any physical modifications of aircraft interiors. The system shall be physically robust and capable of operating under extreme environmental conditions; within the crash worthiness and operating envelope of military aircraft. The system shall be retained and attached to a variety of interior aircraft structures using the existing configuration of fastener holes, to 20g in all directions, to account for mounting in all orientations. Any engineering design work for this requirement must be carried out by a DAOS or EASA Part J qualified design organisation. It must be possible for aircraft crew to operate the system with a single hand only. The system must prevent inadvertent release of the extinguisher due to snagging on flying clothing or other equipment. A single purchase of 900 units with options to purchase additional replacement systems should they be required. The requirement for in service maintenance or training must be minimal and shall be supported by appropriate documentation. The Authority invites expressions of interest from industry, for the development, demonstration and supply of systems that can meet the capability.
Expressions of interest are required from suitably qualified companies who hold ISO 9001-2008 certification or an internationally recognised equivalent and be a DAOS or EASA part J qualified design organisation. A Statement illustrating the company's work should also accompany the expression of interest.
Companies should also include:
A statement of turnover for the last 3 years including copies of annual reports.
Details of any current or previous contracts with the Ministry of Defence.
Companies may be required to complete a pre-qualification questionnaire (PQQ) to assist the tendering process.