NASA Request for Information (RFI) – High Purity Air (HPA) System for A-1 Rocket Test Stand
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
NASA Stennis Space Center has issued a Request for Information (RFI), a Special Notice, seeking industry input for the design and turnkey installation of a High Purity Air (HPA) Compressed Air System for the A-1 Rocket Test Stand. This system will support both daily normal operations and infrequent rocket engine drying events. Responses are due by February 13, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.
Purpose & Scope
The RFI aims to gather information for a new HPA system capable of delivering air up to 3000 psig and flow rates up to 300 SCFM for standard operations, with a minimum of 1000 SCFM for 10-12 hours during 4-6 annual engine drying events. The system must meet stringent purity requirements, including specific levels for O2, H2O (max -53.9°C Dew Point), Volatile Hydrocarbons, Particulate, and Condensable Hydrocarbons.
Key system components include:
- Compressors: Fully self-contained units (e.g., Bauer, Sauer, or equivalent) with VFD capability, including one for normal operations and additional units for engine drying.
- Dryers: Must continuously maintain a -53.9°C dew point.
- Controls: Allen-Bradley preferred, Siemens acceptable.
- Electrical & Mechanical Scope: Includes all necessary MCCs, transformers, breaker panels, piping, valves, and pipe tie-ins.
Information Requested from Industry
NASA is specifically requesting input on:
- Impact of compressor start/stop on dew point.
- Startup time to achieve -55°C dew point.
- Dryer heating requirements and recommendations for series dryer installation.
- Budgetary cost estimates for both a full design/build turnkey system and for hardware only (compressors, filters, dryer system).
- Recommended project timeline.
- Additional considerations for reliability, redundancy, risks, and other system-related factors.
Submission Details
Industry is requested to provide comprehensive responses, including cost estimates, recommendations, and considerations for electrical and mechanical integration. This is a market research effort; no proposals are being requested at this time.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Special Notice (Request for Information)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: February 13, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Published: January 30, 2026
- Place of Performance: Stennis Space Center, MS, United States
Contact Information
- Primary: James Hibbs (james.s.hibbs@nasa.gov)
- Secondary: Will Garrett (will.c.garrett@nasa.gov)