Instron Model 68FM-300 Test Frame
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 National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Shared Services Center (NSSC) intends to award a sole source contract to Instron, A Division Of Illinois Tool Works, Inc., for an Instron Model 68FM-300 Test Frame. This requirement is for the Mechanical and Environmental Testing Laboratory (METL) at NASA Kennedy Space Center, FL. The government is seeking written capabilities from other interested organizations to determine if this procurement should be conducted on a competitive basis. Submissions are due by April 10, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Central Standard Time.
Scope of Work
NASA requires a floor-mounted materials testing system, specifically an Instron Model 68FM-300, with a 300 kN force capacity. Key specifications include:
- A 300 kN (67,500 lbf) floor-mounted testing system with a tall height load frame.
- 3 Phase 200/208 VAC power requirement (North America).
- Maximum crosshead travel of 1858 mm (73.1 in).
- Static load cell (Type II) with 300 kN capacity, plus additional 10 kN, 50 kN, and 150 kN static load cells.
- Bluehill Universal testing software licenses, including Test Method Suite and Advanced Performance modules.
- System installation, onsite software introduction, and enhanced force, crosshead speed, displacement, and strain verification per ASTM standards.
- System warranty services and an Instron Connect Agreement.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Intent to Sole Source (Commercial Items under FAR Part 12)
- Agency: National Aeronautics And Space Administration (NASA)
- NAICS Code: 334519 (Laboratory Equipment And Supplies)
- Place of Performance: NASA Kennedy Space Center, BOSS Warehouse - M6-0744, Kennedy Space Center, FL 32899
- Period of Performance: Need By 9/30/2026
- Submission Deadline: April 10, 2026, 4:00 p.m. Central Standard Time
- Published: April 7, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Interested organizations must submit their capabilities and qualifications in writing. These submissions will be evaluated solely to determine if the procurement should be conducted on a competitive basis. The decision to pursue a full and open competition remains at the government's discretion. Oral communications are not acceptable. This is not a request for quotes, and pricing will not be accepted at this time.
Additional Notes
Correspondence should reference ID 80NSSC26929705Q in the subject line. The primary point of contact is Lindsey McLellan at lindsey.m.mclellan@nasa.gov. NASA FAR Supplement Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable.