High Speed Spindle
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), is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify potential sources for a High Speed Spindle system. This system is intended for the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB), Ohio, to perform engine-relevant test conditions for modified turbine components. The Government is seeking capabilities packages from all potential sources, including small businesses of various socio-economic statuses. Responses are due by April 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time.
Scope of Work
The objective is to procure a high-speed spindle system capable of performing engine matching conditions such as speed, thrust, load, heat flux, lubrication, and air bypass. The spindle drive system must include:
- 4 High Speed Spindle motors: Variable RPM 15,000-90,000, minimum 3.5kW power, HJND-50 or smooth 14mm diameter shaft interface, sensor/encoder feedback, continuous duty, 150mm outside diameter.
- 2 High frequency speed control drives: Variable RPM 15,000-90,000, closed-loop speed control, 240/480V Single/Three phase 60Hz power, continuous duty, discrete digital/analog I/O communication.
- 2 Lubrication systems: Air/oil mist method, 240/480V Single/Three phase 60Hz power, 150psi max air supply, included filtration, discrete I/O communication.
- 2 Cooling systems (if applicable): Suitable for continuous spindle operation, 240/480V Single/Three phase 60Hz power, discrete I/O communication.
- Full kits of additional cables, hoses, fittings, connectors, tools, etc.
- Assembly/Operation manuals.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- NAICS: 334516 Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1000 employees)
- Set-Aside: None currently designated. The Government will consider a small business set-aside based on responses received.
- Response Due: April 8, 2026, 1:00 PM EDT
- Published: April 6, 2026
- Delivery Lead Time: No later than 26 weeks after contract approval.
- Delivery Location: Air Force Institute of Technology, AFIT/ENY, 2950 Hobson Way, WPAFB, OH 45433.
- Warranty: 1 year after receipt of delivery.
Submission Requirements
Interested firms must submit a capabilities package, not exceeding five (5) pages, explicitly demonstrating their ability to provide the required product. The package should include:
- Company information (name, address, POC, ownership, socio-economic status, DUNS/CAGE, URL, manufacturer info).
- Statement on capability to meet FAR 52.219-14 (Limitations on Subcontracting) for small businesses, including teaming arrangements.
- Country of manufacturing, facility capabilities, staff composition, management structure, and past experience on similar projects.
- Identification of any requirements that would preclude their solution.
- Information on established market prices and terms/conditions for Government vs. commercial offerings.
Submissions must be sent via email to dametria.walder@us.af.mil and claire.hess@us.af.mil. The subject line must read "High Speed Spindle" to ensure delivery. Only .pdf, .doc, .docx, .xsls, or .xls attachments are permitted.
Additional Notes
This is for market research purposes only and is not a request for proposals. Responses are voluntary and will not be reimbursed. The information gathered will inform the Government's decision on whether any future solicitation will be full and open competition or a set-aside.