Automated Smoke Point Instrument
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The United States Air Force (AFLCMC) is conducting market research via a Sources Sought notice to identify qualified sources, including small businesses, capable of providing one Automated Smoke Point Instrument for the Aerospace Fuels Laboratory at Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA. This instrument is crucial for testing Aviation Turbine Fuels and Kerosene-based Propellants. Capabilities packages are due by April 27, 2026.
Opportunity Details
This is a Sources Sought for market research purposes only; it is not a request for proposals. The Government will use responses to determine potential small business set-aside opportunities for a future acquisition. The assigned NAICS code is 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with a 1,000-employee small business size standard. The Government reserves the right to consider a small business set-aside based on responses, but a decision has not yet been made.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for one robust Automated Smoke Point Instrument that complies with ASTM D1322-24 standards. Key functionalities include automatic operation of ASTM D1322, digital flame height analysis (0.0-50.0 mm range, 0.05 mm resolution), environmental sensing (pressure, humidity, temperature) with automatic compensation, and correction factor calculation. The instrument package must include a wick trimmer set, wick tube, and 50 compatible wicks. Delivery and installation are required within 12 weeks of contract award at Vandenberg SFB.
Key Requirements & Deliverables
- Performance Standards: Flame height measurement range 0.0-50.0 mm, resolution minimum 0.05 mm. Environmental sensor accuracy: Pressure ±0.5 kPa, Humidity 10-90% RH, Temperature 5-50 °C. Data storage >2GB.
- Support: On-site installation, performance verification, and a minimum of 4 hours of training at Vandenberg SFB.
- Warranty: Two-year extended warranty for parts and services.
- Technical Support: Via phone or email during business hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm nominal) with a response time of no more than 3 business days.
- Documentation: Electronic copies of all manuals and instructions.
- Logistics: All shipping costs and insurance must be included. Contractors must adhere to specific delivery procedures for Vandenberg AFB.
Response Instructions
Interested firms must submit a capabilities package, not exceeding five (5) pages, explicitly demonstrating their ability to meet the required specifications. Responses should detail company information, ownership, socio-economic status (e.g., 8(a), SDVOSB, EDWOSB, WOSB, small business, HUBZone), DUNS/CAGE Code, and manufacturer information. Small businesses should address compliance with FAR 52.219-14 (Limitations on Subcontracting) and potential teaming arrangements. The package must be emailed to Ms. Eve Aden (eve.aden@us.af.mil) and Ms. Jennifer Blackford (jennifer.blackford@us.af.mil) with the subject line: "Automated Smoke Point Instrument".
Deadlines
- Capabilities Package Due: April 27, 2026, at 2:00 PM Eastern Time.