Class JA Brand Name ABB SF6 Breakers_Redacted.pdf

This is a Justification and Approval (J&A) document for a class procurement exception to full and open competition submitted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District.

The procurement seeks class approval for a five-year base contract (plus four one-year options) to procure brand-name Asea Brown Boveri (ABB) Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) breakers for hydroelectric projects across three Northwestern Division districts: Walla Walla, Seattle, and Portland. The justification cites Title 10 U.S.C. §3204(a)(1) and FAR 6.103-1(d) for brand-name authority, with class justification authorized under FAR 6.104(c). SF6 breakers are electrical switchgear devices essential for transmission and distribution system protection. The government seeks to standardize equipment across the region for operational consistency, maintenance efficiency, and personnel training. Historical procurement data shows six contracts completed over four years in the Walla Walla District alone, with contract values ranging from $37.7K to $174.4K. Recent procurement methods have included both small business set-asides (SBSA) and unrestricted competitive solicitations. A Sources Sought notice posted October 16, 2025, generated four small business responses: Aptos Logistics, Inc.; BHPE LLC; Brenco Supply, Inc.; and Mary Helen Parkey. The justification establishes that ABB SF6 breaker products are the only compatible equipment available due to proprietary design characteristics, intellectual property protections, and functional integration with existing systems. Non-procurement of the specified brand would create significant operational risks, including potential power generation losses estimated at $3M to $9M monthly per facility. The government commits to publishing notices under FAR 5.002 and issuing small business set-aside synopses for future competition.