Brand Name Justification_Laser Extensometer_Redacted.pdf

Justification for an Exception to Fair Opportunity or to Use Brand-Name Restriction

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

March 2018 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY Page 2 of 3

Qty 1 Estimated Cost:

PN: TM-03

Model TM-03 Heavy Duty Tripod & Head for LE-05 with "Quick Attach" Adapter Plate.

Qty 1 Estimated Cost:

Total estimated cost of the order will be:

Delivery schedule: Thirty (30) days after receipt of order (ARO)

(4) Justification for restricting consideration to a brand-name item:

IAW FAR 16.505(b)(2)(i)(B) and AFMAN 64-302 paragraph 6.8, “Only one awardee is capable of providing the supplies or services required at the level of quality required because the supplies or services ordered are unique or highly specialized.”

The EIR Model LE-05 Laser Extensometer is a precision, wide-range instrument specifically designed for accurate, non-contact measurement of strain on various materials under tensile or compressive conditions. The EIR Model LE-05 Laser Extensometer measures strain optically using advanced laser diode technology. Unlike most laser extensometers, the EIR Model LE-05 utilizes a scanning beam that is always perpendicular to the specimen. The perpendicular beam not only minimizes sensitivity to the distance between the extensometer and the sample, it also eliminates errors when viewing through windows in chambers. The EIR LE-05 Laser Extensometer also employs a unique scanning laser beam technique to measure elongation entirely from one side of the specimen. This unique laser beam technique eliminates the need for a scan receiver on the opposite side of the specimen.

The 582 MMXS Propellant Test Lab currently utilizes EIR Laser Extensometers in conjunction with Instron test machines as a critical component of their test system. Procuring the same measuring device currently utilized in the lab will allow for consistent measurements, specimen tests, and results between the different test machines in the lab. It will also minimize operator learning curve, as it will run on the same operating system currently used in the lab, while applying the same test plans and technical data. The lab requires one (1) EIR Laser Extensometer per Instron test machine. 582 MMXS is in the process of procuring a new Instron test machine. In order to prevent a delay in workload, the lab requires the new EIR Model LE-05 Laser Extensometer to complete the test system.

(5) Contracting Officer's determination that the anticipated cost to the Government will be fair and reasonable:

Based on market research, it is anticipated that adequate price competition exists to establish a fair and reasonable price. IAW FAR 15.404-1(b), price analysis and procedures will be used to ensure the final agreed-to price is fair and reasonable. This acquisition will be solicited on a competitive basis.

(6) Other facts supporting the justification:

None

(7) Actions the agency may take to remove or overcome any barriers to decreasing the use of brand-name items before any subsequent acquisition of the supplies or services:

It is anticipated that future purchases will still require a brand name justification; however, the Government will continue to look at other viable product options. The Air Force will continue to search the commercial market on the latest new and emerging products that could satisfy the Government's requirements on future purchases.