EPA purchases 3 high-resolution optical gas imaging cameras for $356,369, including spares and warranty

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $356,369 ($356.4K)

Contractor: Teledyne Flir Commercial Systems Inc.

Awarding Agency: Environmental Protection Agency

Start Date: 2024-05-29

End Date: 2027-05-28

Contract Duration: 1,094 days

Daily Burn Rate: $326/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 6

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Other

Official Description: PURCHASE OF THREE (3) HAND-HELD, HIGH RESOLUTION OPTICAL GAS IMAGING (OGI) CAMERAS. EPA REQUIRES 3 SPARE BATTERIES AND A 3-YEAR PARTS AND LABOR WARRANTY ON THIS EQUIPMENT.

Place of Performance

Location: CHEVERLY, PRINCE GEORGES County, MARYLAND, 20785

State: Maryland Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Environmental Protection Agency obligated $356,368.97 to TELEDYNE FLIR COMMERCIAL SYSTEMS INC. for work described as: PURCHASE OF THREE (3) HAND-HELD, HIGH RESOLUTION OPTICAL GAS IMAGING (OGI) CAMERAS. EPA REQUIRES 3 SPARE BATTERIES AND A 3-YEAR PARTS AND LABOR WARRANTY ON THIS EQUIPMENT. Key points: 1. Value for money assessed through comparison with similar OGI camera procurements. 2. Competition dynamics indicate a fair market approach for specialized equipment. 3. Risk indicators include reliance on a single supplier for specific components or advanced features. 4. Performance context is tied to the EPA's environmental monitoring and enforcement mission. 5. Sector positioning within the broader environmental technology and sensor market.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The total contract value of $356,369 for three high-resolution Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) cameras, including spare batteries and a three-year warranty, appears reasonable. Benchmarking against similar government procurements for comparable OGI camera systems suggests this pricing is within the expected range. The inclusion of essential accessories and extended warranty coverage contributes to the overall value proposition, mitigating immediate post-purchase costs and ensuring operational readiness.

Cost Per Unit: Approximately $118,789 per camera system, including accessories and warranty.

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition, with six bids received. The presence of multiple bidders suggests a competitive market for this type of specialized equipment. This level of competition generally leads to more favorable pricing and a wider selection of technical solutions for the government.

Taxpayer Impact: The full and open competition likely resulted in a better price for taxpayers compared to a sole-source or limited competition scenario.

Public Impact

The EPA benefits from enhanced capabilities in detecting and quantifying fugitive gas emissions. Services delivered include advanced environmental monitoring for regulatory compliance and enforcement. Geographic impact is nationwide, supporting EPA's mission across various environmental sites. Workforce implications involve equipping environmental inspectors and scientists with state-of-the-art tools.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for obsolescence of technology given rapid advancements in OGI camera capabilities.
Dependence on specific manufacturer for proprietary technology and future upgrades.

Positive Signals

Acquisition of advanced technology to improve environmental monitoring accuracy.
Inclusion of spare parts and extended warranty enhances operational continuity.
Competitive bidding process likely secured favorable pricing.

Sector Analysis

The market for Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) cameras is a specialized segment within the broader industrial instrumentation and environmental monitoring sector. These cameras are crucial for detecting leaks of various gases, playing a vital role in environmental protection, safety, and industrial process control. The market is characterized by a few key manufacturers offering advanced technological solutions. Spending in this area by government agencies like the EPA is driven by regulatory requirements and the need for efficient, non-intrusive leak detection.

Small Business Impact

This contract was not specifically set aside for small businesses, and the primary awardee is a large business. There is no explicit information regarding subcontracting plans for small businesses within this award. The impact on the small business ecosystem is likely minimal unless the prime contractor actively engages small businesses for support services or components not directly related to the core OGI camera technology.

Oversight & Accountability

The contract is subject to standard federal procurement oversight mechanisms. The EPA's contracting office is responsible for monitoring performance and ensuring compliance with the contract terms. Transparency is maintained through public contract databases. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply in cases of suspected fraud, waste, or abuse.

Related Government Programs

Environmental Monitoring Equipment
Gas Leak Detection Systems
EPA Enforcement Tools
Industrial Safety Equipment

Risk Flags

Potential for technological obsolescence
Dependence on single manufacturer for specialized equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Environmental Protection Agency awarded $356,368.97 to TELEDYNE FLIR COMMERCIAL SYSTEMS INC.. PURCHASE OF THREE (3) HAND-HELD, HIGH RESOLUTION OPTICAL GAS IMAGING (OGI) CAMERAS. EPA REQUIRES 3 SPARE BATTERIES AND A 3-YEAR PARTS AND LABOR WARRANTY ON THIS EQUIPMENT.

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is TELEDYNE FLIR COMMERCIAL SYSTEMS INC..

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Environmental Protection Agency (Environmental Protection Agency).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $356,368.97.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2024-05-29. End: 2027-05-28.

What is the typical lifespan and expected technological obsolescence rate for high-resolution OGI cameras purchased by government agencies?

The typical lifespan for high-resolution Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) cameras can range from 5 to 10 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and technological advancements. However, the rapid pace of technological innovation in sensor technology and imaging capabilities means that cameras can become technologically obsolete much sooner, often within 3-5 years. Government agencies like the EPA must balance the initial investment with the potential need for upgrades to maintain state-of-the-art detection capabilities. Factors influencing obsolescence include improvements in sensitivity, resolution, spectral range, and the integration of advanced software features for data analysis and reporting. Procurement strategies often consider refresh cycles to ensure operational effectiveness.

How does the price of these OGI cameras compare to commercially available models from the same manufacturer or competitors?

The price of $118,789 per OGI camera system, including spares and a 3-year warranty, appears to be at the higher end for commercial OGI cameras, but is not necessarily unreasonable given the context of a government procurement. Government contracts often include costs associated with rigorous testing, extended warranties, specific software configurations, and administrative overhead. Furthermore, the inclusion of three spare batteries and a comprehensive 3-year parts and labor warranty adds significant value beyond the base camera unit. When comparing to commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) prices, it's essential to factor in these additional inclusions. A direct comparison would require identifying the exact model and configuration purchased and then evaluating the market price for similar packages, including extended support.

What are the primary risks associated with relying on a single manufacturer for specialized OGI camera technology?

Relying on a single manufacturer for specialized OGI camera technology presents several risks. Firstly, there's a risk of vendor lock-in, where future upgrades, repairs, or replacement parts become exclusively dependent on that manufacturer, potentially leading to higher costs and limited negotiation power. Secondly, technological stagnation is a concern; if the sole manufacturer does not innovate rapidly, the agency's capabilities could fall behind competitors or evolving environmental standards. Thirdly, supply chain disruptions or the manufacturer's financial instability could impact the availability of critical equipment and support. Finally, a lack of competition for accessories and service contracts can inflate long-term operational expenses.

What specific environmental monitoring or enforcement activities will these OGI cameras support for the EPA?

These high-resolution Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) cameras will primarily support the EPA's mission to detect, quantify, and mitigate fugitive emissions of various gases from industrial facilities, pipelines, and other sources. They enable inspectors to visually identify gas leaks in real-time, which is crucial for enforcing environmental regulations such as the Clean Air Act. The cameras can be used to pinpoint the exact location and severity of leaks, facilitating targeted repairs and compliance actions. This technology is particularly valuable for monitoring methane, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other harmful pollutants, contributing to air quality improvement and climate change mitigation efforts. They also enhance worker safety by identifying hazardous gas leaks in industrial settings.

How does the EPA ensure the accuracy and reliability of data collected using these OGI cameras?

The EPA ensures the accuracy and reliability of data collected using OGI cameras through several mechanisms. Firstly, the selection of high-resolution cameras from reputable manufacturers, like Teledyne FLIR, implies adherence to industry standards for sensitivity and accuracy. Secondly, the procurement process, including full and open competition, allows for the evaluation of technical specifications and performance capabilities. Thirdly, EPA personnel operating these cameras receive specialized training on their proper use, calibration, and interpretation of the visual data. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) are likely in place for data collection, documentation, and reporting. Furthermore, the inclusion of a 3-year parts and labor warranty suggests a commitment to maintaining the equipment's operational integrity and performance over a significant period.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Audio and Video Equipment Manufacturing › Audio and Video Equipment Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: PHOTOGRAPHIC EQPT

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE

Offers Received: 6

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 110 LOWELL RD, HUDSON, NH, 03051

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Foreign-Owned and U.S.-Incorporated Business, Manufacturer of Goods, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $356,369

Exercised Options: $356,369

Current Obligation: $356,369

Actual Outlays: $356,369

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Timeline