Notice of Intent to Sole Source- ElectroForce Apex 1
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 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Research and Development Center (ERDC), Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory (GSL), intends to issue a sole source award to TA Instruments – Waters, LLC for one ElectroForce Apex 1 system. This instrument is crucial for the Concrete Materials Branch (CMB)'s research in force protection, novel additives, and polymer synthesis. The government has determined that TA Instruments – Waters, LLC is the only vendor capable of meeting the exact specifications. Responses from other responsible sources are due by April 28, 2026, 4:00 PM CST.
Scope of Requirement
The ElectroForce Apex 1 is a mechanical testing system with dynamic mechanical analysis capabilities. It will support material characterization and processing, specifically for understanding polymeric and composite materials under various strains, frequencies, tensile, and compressive rates.
Key technical specifications include:
- Peak force: 1,000 N
- Acceleration: up to 20 g
- Displacement range and dynamic stroke: 100 mm
- Tension/torsion grips rated to 350°C, usable to 3000 N
- Compression platens: 100 mm diameter
- 3- and 4-point bend fixtures with adjustable lower span from 15 to 160 mm
The system must use the TRIOS software package, which GSL-CMB researchers are proficient in, allowing seamless data leverage across instruments. The requirement also includes installation, training, a compatible computer, and 24 months of instrument support. The DMA application kit must be compatible with WinTest. This capability is vital for ongoing research in material development, ensuring reliable performance for polymers and building materials in applications like force protection and infrastructure.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Special Notice (Notice of Intent to Sole Source)
- Intended Awardee: TA Instruments – Waters, LLC (CAGE Code: 0MJS5)
- Contract Type: Firm-Fixed Price
- Justification: Sole source under FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i) due to unique characteristics and TA Instruments being the only vendor meeting exact specifications.
- NAICS: 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing)
- Set-Aside: None (TA Instruments – Waters, LLC is not a small business under this NAICS).
- Response Due: April 28, 2026, 4:00 PM CST
- Published: April 21, 2026
Response Information
This notice is for informational purposes only and is not a request for competitive quotes or proposals; a solicitation will not be issued. However, responsible sources may submit a capability statement, proposal, or quotation. Submissions must detail the vendor's ability to fulfill the requirement, provide past experience with similar requirements, and include references. Information received will be considered solely to determine if a competitive procurement is feasible. The government retains discretion regarding competition. Submissions should be sent to Tam Coronel at Tam.M.Coronel@usace.army.mil.