High-Performance Liquid Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometer (HPLC-MS)
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, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), on behalf of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice to identify potential sources for a High-Performance Liquid Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometer (HPLC-MS) system. This system must be 100% natively compatible with and controllable by the existing Agilent MassHunter software platform. Responses are due by January 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM Eastern Time.
Scope of Work
The Government requires a new HPLC-MS system to replace an outdated unit. Key requirements include:
- Native compatibility with Agilent MassHunter software.
- Components from the same manufacturer, serviced by the OEM.
- Support for Electro-spray ionization (ESI) and Atmospheric-pressure chemical ionization (APCI).
- Specific technical requirements for mass spectrum analyzer, nebulizer, pump, degasser, detectors, autosampler, and column compartments.
- Upgradable software, including Mass Hunter Data Analysis Software.
- Capability for future upgrade to supercritical fluids (SFC).
- Inclusion of a Nitrogen Generator.
- Direct purchase from the manufacturer and OEM installation.
- Training for three personnel for three days.
- Performance standards include specific sensitivity, signal-to-noise ratio, and temperature stability.
- Products must be domestic or qualifying country end products (DFARS 252.225-7001, Buy American).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Set-Aside: None specified; a decision will be made based on market research.
- Response Due: January 26, 2026, 11:00 AM ET
- Published: January 9, 2026
- Place of Performance: Air Force Institute of Technology/ENP, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433
- Delivery: Within 9 months of contract award (if a solicitation follows).
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties must submit a capability package providing clear evidence of their ability to meet the Agilent MassHunter compatibility requirement. Submissions should include:
- Company details (Name, Address, CAGE Code, UEI, POC, business size under NAICS 334516).
- Information on ownership, socio-economic status, facility capabilities, staff, management, and past experience.
- Details on compliance with FAR 52.219-14 (Limitations on Subcontracting) for small businesses. Responses will validate market research findings and inform the Government's decision on whether any future solicitation will be full and open or a set-aside. This is for market research only and does not constitute an offer.
Additional Notes
Prospective contractors must be registered in SAM.gov. Email submissions must use the subject line: "FA860126Q0006, Sources Sought: High-Performance Liquid Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometer (HPLC-MS) System." Attachments ending in .zip or .exe are not allowed. Points of Contact: Brian Algeo (brian.algeo.1@us.af.mil) and Candice Snow (candice.snow@us.af.mil).