Sample Testing
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 Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Portland District, is conducting a Sources Sought for market research purposes to identify qualified firms for metal coupon testing services. The objective is to establish a single Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) for a five-year period. A critical requirement is that the contractor's laboratory must be validated by the USACE Materials Testing Center (MTC) and maintain ISO/IEC 17025 certification. Responses are due by April 17, 2026. This is not a solicitation.
Scope of Work
The selected contractor will be responsible for receiving, testing, and reporting on the mechanical and/or chemical characteristics of metal coupons. These tests aid the Quality Assurance (QA) process for components supplied to the Government, many of which may originate from international locations. The contractor will not be responsible for shipping or duty costs for receiving coupons.
Coupon materials to be tested include various ASTM grades such as A743 Grade CA6NM and CF3, A27 Grade 70-40, A148 Grade 80-40, A216 Grade WCC, and A516 Grade 60. Required tests may include chemical analysis (ASTM A751), carbon combustion (ASTM E1019-18), tensile tests (yield strength, tensile strength, elongation, reduction of area), hardness tests, and Charpy v-notch impact tests, all according to ASTM A370. The range of tests will vary by material and component. The contractor's facility must be capable of machining specimens, performing tests, and submitting reports in accordance with specified ASTM standards.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (for a potential Firm Fixed-Price Single Award BPA)
- Duration (potential BPA): 5 years from the date of award
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research targets Large Business, Small Business, Small Disadvantaged, 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, EDWOSB, and SDVOSB firms)
- Response Due: April 17, 2026, 6:00 PM UTC
- Published: April 3, 2026
Key Requirements & Evaluation
Respondents must demonstrate their capabilities to successfully accomplish the outlined requirements. A key factor is the status of validation by the USACE Materials Testing Center (MTC) and current ISO/IEC 17025 certification. Responses will be used to gain knowledge of industry interest, capabilities, and qualifications, and to inform the Government's acquisition strategy, including potential small business participation.
Submission Instructions
Responses must be submitted electronically via email to Jessica.Manley@usace.army.mil with the subject line: 'USACE Coupon Testing BPA'. Submissions are limited to five (5) pages total and must include:
- Firm's name, address, point of contact, phone number, email address, CAGE code, and SAM number.
- Firm's small business category and business size.
- Relevant and verifiable experience/capabilities pertaining to the proposed work.
- Any questions regarding the proposed project.
Additional Notes
This notice is for informational purposes only and does not obligate the Government to award a contract. No reimbursement will be made for response costs. A solicitation may be published after review of responses. Firms must be registered in SAM to be eligible for any future award.