Submitted By: Bobby Whitehead
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Presentation By: Doug Peebles
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Department: Electric Utility
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Approve the purchase of 14 R-Mag circuit breakers for various substations from WESCO Distribution in the amount of $608,153
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OCALA'S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Fiscally Sustainable
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
SSP-215 - Posted:11/29/2023
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BACKGROUND:
Ocala Electric Utility (OEU) is transitioning from spring-charge mechanism breakers to R-Mag circuit breakers manufactured by ABB Inc. and distributed by WESCO. R-Mag circuit breakers are protective devices that feature a maintenance-free magnetic actuator and provide greater efficiency and improved reliability over spring-charged breakers that require periodic maintenance and are prone to malfunctions.
OEU's strategy to phase out outdated equipment evolved after identifying a malfunction in older breakers. This led to the decision to replace all units with ABB Inc.'s R-Mag breakers to enhance safety, reliability, and operational excellence across substations.
On November 29, 2023, OEU requested standardization of ABB, Inc.'s R-Mag breakers because of the inability to obtain parts for the breakers in service. On January 3, 2024, the Procurement and Contracting Officer approved the standardization of ABB, Inc.'s R-Mag breakers citywide.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
This purchase request includes breakers for the Airport Substation upgrade and concludes the faulty S&C breaker replacement. OEU requests approval to purchase 14 R-Mag circuit breakers.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Funds for the breaker upgrades are budgeted in the Fiscal Year 2024-25 capital project account numbers:
* 332-032-184-531-69-65010 - Airport Substation (10) = $ 444,229
* 332-032-194-531-69-65010 - Water Plant Substation (4) = $ 163,924
PROCUREMENT REVIEW:
These goods were procured in compliance with the City's Procurement Policy.
LEGAL REVIEW:
N/A. The terms and conditions of the City's stan...
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