68TM-5 Instron Test Stand System - Sole Source

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides a detailed product description and specification for the Instron 68TM-5 Instron Test Stand, requested by the 309 Missile Maintenance Group (MMXG) for Hill Air Force Base. It outlines the specific components, characteristics, and optional add-ons for the test stand.

• Instron Frame (68TM-5): Specifies the model, force capacity (5kN), voltage (120V), extra-height crosshead, and includes a tension/compression load cell (5 kN).
• Additional Loadcells and Piggyback Adapter: Lists various static load cells (100N, 500N) and an adapter for Type D load cell clevis.
• Bluehill Universal Software (2450-700): Details the testing software, including language options and modules for different controller series and advanced performance.
• Bluehill Operator Dashboard (2490-696): Describes the dashboard hardware, including a touch computer and mounting options.
• Grips and Faces: Mentions flexible tension coupling, noting that grips and faces were not quoted and existing fixtures will be used.
• Environmental Chamber (3119-609): Specifies an environmental chamber with temperature ranges, a controller, an LN2 cooling option, and associated power cords and manuals.
• Support Table (2910-056): Includes a heavy-duty load frame support table.
• AVE3 (2663-921): Details the Advance Video Extensometer 3, including language options, mounting, interface, and lens specifications.
• Installation, Verification, and Training: Outlines system installation, warranty services, connection agreements, and enhanced force/crosshead speed verification.
• Delivery: Specifies a 3-month lead time after order (ARO) and provides shipping points of contact and the delivery address.
• Manufacturer Warranty: Standard manufacturer warranty applies.
• Government Point of Contact (POC): Identifies Juan (John) Martinez as the customer representative.
• Payment: Details payment initiation after receipt and inspection, processing via Wide Area Workflow (WAWF).

This document is crucial for potential bidders as it defines the exact technical specifications and components required for the Instron Test Stand. Bidders must ensure their proposed solution meets or exceeds all listed requirements, including specific model numbers, capacities, software versions, and accessories. It also provides essential information regarding delivery timelines, installation, training, warranty, and payment procedures, which are critical for proposal development and contract execution.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items, specifically an Instron 68TM-5 Test Stand System. It is being issued as a Request for Quote (RFQ) and constitutes the only solicitation; no separate written solicitation will be issued. The government anticipates a sole source award to Instron, a Division of Illinois Tool Works, Inc. (CAGE 80160).

• Primary Item: Instron 68TM-5 Test Stand System, as detailed in the "Instron 68TM-5 Product Description" attachment.

• Services: Installation, verification, warranty, onsite training, handling, and delivery of the Instron 68TM-5 Test Stand System.

• Delivery: Within 90 calendar days ARO (after receipt of order). Vendors must propose an alternate schedule if this is not practicable.

• Contract Type: Firm fixed price for all CLINs.

• NAICS Code: 334519

• Product Service Code: 6625

• Proposal Submission: Submit quotes via email to Contract Specialist Rachel Wright (rachel.wright.9@us.af.mil) and Contract Officer Melissa Huston (melissa.huston.2@us.af.mil).

• Questions Deadline: Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. MST.

• Proposal Due Date: Monday, March 16, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time.

• Evaluation Factors: Comparative analysis based on price, meeting product description specifications, and delivery timeframe.

• Pricing Validity: 90 days from proposal submission.

• Sole Source: Anticipated sole source award to Instron, a Division of Illinois Tool Works, Inc.

• The solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses by reference, accessible at www.acquisition.gov.

• Attachments include: "Instron 68TM-5 Product Description" and "Single Source Justification Instron 68TM-5."

• FOB: Destination.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a "Single Source Justification (Simplified Acquisition)" for the procurement of a new Instron testing system. It outlines the rationale for soliciting from a single source, specifically Instron, for the 582nd Missile Maintenance Squadron (582 MMXS) Propellant Test Lab at Hill Air Force Base.

This document explains why the government is pursuing a sole-source procurement. Key reasons include:

• Operational Continuity: Maintaining standardization with existing Instron machines to avoid operator learning curves and additional training.
• Tooling & Component Interoperability: Ensuring all existing tooling and load cells are compatible with the new system, preventing costs associated with redundant tooling and minimizing downtime.
• Data Integrity & Consistency: Utilizing the same proprietary software across all testing machines to ensure consistent and comparable test data.
• Simplified Maintenance & Calibration: Consolidating maintenance and calibration under a single vendor contract to avoid complex multi-vendor management.

The document states that Instron is the sole manufacturer, developer, and service provider for its products, and retains all rights to its proprietary designs, parts, and software. Market research confirmed that the equipment and software are proprietary and only available directly from Instron, with no authorized distributors in the United States.

The Contracting Officer has determined that a single source is reasonably available in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1).