Department of the Treasury (DY), Bureau of Engraving and Printing Office of Procurement, 14th & C Sts., SW, Room 708-A, Washington, DC 20228

36 -- PACKAGING EQUIPMENT FOR 100-SUBJECT POSTAGE STAMP COILS DUE 110998 POC Sharon Phillips, Contract Specialist, 202-874-3255 The Bureau of Engraving and Printing, hereinafter referred to as the BEP, is seeking industry comments on a draft specification for a fully integrated thermoform type packaging line for small (100-subject postage stamp) coils. Alternatives to thermoform packaging are encouraged. Any form of packaging that satisfies the performance requirements herein will be given consideration. Of prime importance is package density. Reduction of package size while retaining the product count would be the primary reason for selection of a package type other than thermoform. The draft specification describes the packaging line with the capabilities of (a) feeding coils of postage stamps, (b) forming trays for the coils, and (c) packaging the trays into cartons for shipment. In addition, the packaging line shall be capable of receiving and packaging coils at the rate of 750 coils per minute and be suitable for long term operation at this speed. Long term is defined as a 15 year productive life based upon eight (8) hoursper shift, three (3) shifts per day. Machine temperatures, pressures, and vibration levels shall remain stable within acceptable limits. The line shall package no less than 277,000 coils during a 6.5 hour timed operation run. The BEP desires a 99.5% efficiency rate (see page 2 of the draft specification). The equipment shall have the capability to operate at reduced speeds down to 250 coils per minute (speed required to package the output from one winding machine). The equipment shall have a variable speed adjustment that will automatically regulate all components as required to attain steady operation at selected the speed. No more than 5% spoilage shall be attributable to the equipment. Included in the specification is the requirement for special tools, fixtures, calibration equipment, training, technical documentation, and a one (1) year supply of spare parts. All interested parties may request a copy of the draft specification, in writing, from Sharon Phillips at the above listed address, by telefax at 202-874-2200, or by e-mail at sharon.phillips@bep.treas.gov. All comments should be returned to the BEP no later than November 9, 1998. Industry comments will be reviewed for technical merit and possibly be incorporated in the final specification. The Government will not pay for information generated as a result of this request.***** Posted 10/22/98 (W-SN264626). (0295)

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