Astrodyne Fuel Cell Testing Load Bank

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

NASA Glenn Research Center requires the procurement of an Astrodyne Fuel Cell Testing Load Bank.

• The primary deliverable is an Astrodyne Fuel Cell Testing Load Bank.

• Specific characteristics include: 0-400V, 0-1000A, 0-12KW, Water Cooled, Master/Slave Programmable DC Load.

• Quantity required: 3 units.

• Place of Performance: NASA Glenn Research Center, 21000 Brookpark Road, Cleveland, OH 44135.

• Period of Performance: 20-week lead time.

• The load bank must be programmable and capable of Master/Slave operation.

• Water cooling is a specified requirement.

Recommendation and Determination to Solicit from One Source / Brand Name

This document recommends negotiating with a single vendor, Astrodyne Corporation, for the acquisition of Astrodyne Fuel Cell Testing Load Banks. The estimated cost is redacted, and the lead-time for delivery is 20 weeks. This sole-source recommendation is based on the determination that competition is impractical.

• Procurement of three Astrodyne TDI Model XBL-400-1K-12K-LM-LF water-cooled programmable DC load banks.

• The proposed units must ensure compatibility with existing fuel cell stacks and infrastructure.

• Unique Characteristics: Existing fuel cell test facilities currently utilize Astrodyne TDI load banks, which are proven reliable and fully capable.

• Compatibility: Standardizing on Astrodyne TDI allows for seamless integration as drop-in replacements.

• Personnel Familiarity: Eliminates the need for additional training or system modifications.

• Cost and Schedule: Using an alternate vendor would require significant reprogramming and integration, increasing cost and schedule risk.

• Hardware Commonality: Maintains hardware commonality, improving operational efficiency and supportability.

• Government Requirements: Astrodyne TDI is identified as the only responsible source meeting requirements without unacceptable delay or duplication of cost.

• Additional Cost and Risk: An alternate load bank would require performance validation, consuming labor and test resources.

• Compatibility Issues: Current facility control systems are configured for Astrodyne TDI via RS232, requiring significant reprogramming and validation of PLC interfaces for other vendors.

• Schedule Delays: Reprogramming and validation would result in increased engineering effort and delays.

• Future Expansion: Astrodyne TDI's modular design supports future system expansion more cost-effectively.

Not applicable, as this is a sole-source recommendation.

Not applicable, as this is a sole-source recommendation.

• The document includes a date of 4/1/2026 and references V2.0 3-15-2017.