Justification and Approval 100KN Universal Testing Machine Redacted.pdf

Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification - Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items

NEGOTIATION SENSITIVE

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I. Contracting Activity.

Department of the Air Force

AFSC/PZIMB

3001 Staff Dr.

Blsg. 9001 Post F12 Tinker AFB, 73145-3032

II. Nature and/or description of the action being processed.

New contract and is firm fixed price.

This individual Justification and Approval (J&A) authorizes use of other than full and open competition procedures to procure: one (1) Universal Testing Machine (UTM) and all required accessories listed in Section III.

The resulting contract will be a one-time, sole-source, commercial, firm fixed price with the contractor listed below.

Contractor:

Instron 825 University Ave, Norwood, MA 02062 Phone: (800) 564-8378 Cage: 80160

III. Description of supplies/services required to meet agency needs.

76MXSS/MXDTAE requires a replacement 100KN Universal Testing Machine (UTM) to complete material testing for OC- ALC organizations for F101, F108, F110, F118 engines and B-1B, B-52, KC-135, E-3, and future B-21 and KC-46 aircraft. A more detailed list of the required items is in the Statement of Work and Market Research Report with a projected cost of $600,000 and estimated delivery date of 1 September 2026.

1. One floor model UTM with a 100KN capacity that has a minimum crosshead travel of 70" and a minimum horizontal test space of 22". The minimum footprint is 40"W x 25"D x 100"H and a maximum footprint of 50"W x 35"D x 120"H.

The UTM will have the capabilities to meet NADCAP AC7122 alignment requirements.

2. One environmental chamber with a maximum footprint of 22"W x 36"D x 45"H behind the UTM. The internal dimensions a minimum of 15"W x 15"D x 35"H and a maximum of 18"W x 18"D x 40"H. It requires a digital temperature controller and liquid nitrogen cooling option to provide a temperature range of at least -110F to 650F.

3. One software license that allows specimen test control, creation of and editing test methods, data acquisition, data calculations, and reporting of results. The software must support all accessories that are listed.

4. Three load cells, consisting of one with a force capacity of 100KN, one with a force capacity of 20-50 KN, and one with a force capacity of 0.5-2KN. All load cells require an accuracy no larger than 0.5% of the force reading.

5. One set of precision manual wedge grips with flat diamond serrated jaw faces that are capable of meeting NADCAP AC7122 alignment requirements and have a temperature rage of at least -110F to 475F.

6. One set of low force grips with serrated jaw faces and side-screw controlled tightening of the grips.

7. One alignment fixture that meets ASTM E1012 and NADCAP AC7122 alignment requirements.

8. One three-point bend fixture that meets ASTM D790 with a 4mm diameter lower anvil set and a 10mm diameter upper anvil. The fixture will have a mid-span direct measurement deflectometer plunger and clip-on gauge extensometer.

9. One three-point bend fixture that meets ASTM D2344 with a 0.25-inch diameter upper anvil and 0.125-inch diameter lower anvils and a temperature range at least 75F to 475F and a maximum load capacity of at least 8 KN.

Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification - Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items

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10. One climbing drum peel fixture that meets ASTM1781 for flexible facing.

11. One linear variable differential transformer deflectometer (LVDT) that measures compression and tensile modulus and strain values with a range of +/- 2" and a mounting kit onto the compression platens.

12. One set of compression platens that meets ASTM D695 with a lockable spherical seat that ensures an aligned and evenly applied load and a minimum diameter of 5.75" and capacity of at least 250KN.

13. One flatwise sandwich tension fixture that meets ASTM C297 that is capable of testing 2" x 2" square specimens with a temperature range of at least 75F to 475F.

14. One flatwise shear compression and tension fixture that meets ASTM C273 and a maximum load capacity of at least

75KN.

15. One floating roller peel fixture that meets ASTM D3167 with a maximum load capacity of at least 3KN.

16. One video extensometer that measures modulus and strain and meets ASTM D638 and integrates into the UTM software that has reduced errors from thermal and lighting fluctuations.

17. One debris shield that is clear that manually swings open and closed without an interlock switch and is compatible with the video extensometer.

18. The vendor will provide a trained service engineer and/or representative to oversee installation of the items to the lab and conduct final installation and integration. This includes connecting all physical and electrical components and functionality checks, integrate the UTM and software with the Tinker supplied PC, confirm correct operation of the system, electrical components, and mechanical assemblies, initial force verification and calibration in both tension and compression conforming to ASTM E4, crosshead speed verification conforming to ASTM E2658 and displacement verification conforming to ASTM E2309, strain verification and initial calibration on extensometers and deflectometers according to ASTM E83, alignment assessment to conform with NADCAP AC7122 alignment requirements, temperature verification and calibration on the environmental chamber.

19. The vendor will provide at least a 4-hour onsite hardware and software operation and usage training for at least three operators.

20. The vendor will develop at least five test methods chosen by MXDTAE testing requirements.

21. The vendor will provide a 1-year warranty for parts, labor, and travel for repair and replacement for applicable UTM, environmental chamber, and accessories, software updates, and system diagnostics and support.

22. All maintenance and calibration services will be under a service contract, with calibrations on a maximum 12-month interval for the UTM, load cells, extensometers, deflectometers, environmental chamber, and the alignment fixture for NADCAP AC7122 alignment requirements. The vendor will provide all manuals, calibration certificates and maintenance documents to MXDTAE.

IV. Statutory authority permitting other than full and open competition.

AFFARS 5313.501 - 10 U.S.C. 3572, Implementation of Simplified Acquisition Procedures (41 U.S.C. 1901)

V. Demonstration that the contractor's unique qualifications or nature of the acquisition requires the use of the authority cited above (applicability of authority).

76 MXSS/MXDTAE requires a new UTM to replace the obsolete UTM that is currently in use. The new UTM is required to meet the NADCAP AC7122 alignment requirements in order for the lab to obtain the NADCAP AC7122 accreditation.

Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification - Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items

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Additionally, the new UTM is required to fit in the limited designated space in the lab as well as fit the diverse sizes of test coupons and samples tested by the lab.

Only One Responsible Source (FAR 6.302-1(a)(2). Instron is the only known manufacturer of a UTM and accessories with the specifications that would meet all the requirements and support current and future workload. Instron UTM and accessories are capable of meeting the NADCAP AC7122 alignment requirements as well as the designated space in the lab.

76MXSS/MXDTAE has determined that award to any other source would result in unacceptable delays in fulfilling the Government's requirements. The Composites & Shelf-Life lab is on track for achieving NADCAP AC7122 accreditation by Q4 2026, which requires a UTM with NADCAP AC7122 alignment fixtures. Any delay in procuring a new UTM that meets the NADCAP AC7122 alignment requirements will delay the lab's accreditation, which will cause a loss in new support for current and future weapon systems. This loss of support will prevent the weapon systems from obtaining approved use of material for repairs and manufacturing of parts, causing work stoppages for the shops and diminishes the warfighter's ability to accomplish specific missions. No other contractor can meet the requirements, therefore a contractor would need to develop a UTM and accessories that meets the Government's requirements. The amount of time and development for another contractor to develop and test the technology is proprietary to each contractor and is unknown.

VI. Description of efforts made to ensure that offers are solicited from as many potential sources as practicable.

Six vendors were contacted for UTMs and accessories that may meet the requirements listed in Section III and the Statement of Work (SOW). After looking through each vendors' brochures and product data sheets as well as conversations via email and phone, only one vendor fully meets all requirements. Instron fully meets all requirements.

A Sources Sought Synopsis was also posted 30 Sep 2025 to 14 Oct 2025 to identify potential sources capable of providing the required UTM. No additional sources were found capable of providing the requirement.

VII. Determination by the Contracting Officer that the anticipated cost to the Government will be fair and reasonable.

The Contracting Officer will ensure items identified for procurement are negotiated at fair and reasonable prices to the Government. The contract will be swarded IAW FAR Part 12 and will utilize Simplifies Acquisition Procedures in FAR Part 13.5. Price analysis will be performed, and price reasonableness will be determined IAW 13.106-3(a)(2).

VIII. Description of the market research conducted and the results, or a statement of the reasons market research was not conducted.

In accordance with FAR 10.001(a)(2) and (3), market research was conducted between 29 September 2023 and 18 August 2025. It was concluded that this equipment is commercial in nature. Based on the results of the market research, only one source was found to have the capabilities, technology, and expertise to fulfill the UTM and accessories requirements.

Six vendors that have initial capabilities of fulfilling a 100KN UTM were contacted for further information to determine if any meet the requirements listed in Section III and the SOW. After looking through each vendors' brochures and product data sheets as well as conversations via email and phone, only one vendor fully meets all requirements.

A Sources Sought Synopsis was posted to identify potential sources capable of providing the required UTM. One vendor responded to the notice, Upon review by the customer, the vendor was determined incapable of meeting the requirement. The information and photos provided in their submission indicated that the items were Chinese-manufactured and not compliant. Several details included in the vendor's response were assessed to be misleading or potentially fabricated, which raised significant concerns regarding product authenticity and cybersecurity integrity.

Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification - Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items

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IX. Any other facts supporting the use of Other Than Full and Open Competition.

No further information at this time

X. List of any sources that expressed, in writing, an interest in the acquisition.

Instron Cage Code: 80160 825 University Ave Norwood, MA 02062

(800) 564-8378

XI. A statement of the actions, if any, the agency may take to remove or overcome any barriers to competition before making subsequent acquisitions for the supplies or services required.

There are no known actions that can be taken to remove or overcome barriers to competition; therefore, specific actions and milestones cannot be established.

XII. Certification by the Contracting Officer.

As evidenced by my signature above, I have determined this document to be both accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

XIII. Certification by the technical/requirements personnel.

As evidenced by my (our) signature(s) above, I (we) certify that any supporting data contained herein, which is my (our) responsibility, is both accurate and complete.

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Contracting without providing for full and open competition shall not be justified on the basis of lack of advance planning by the requiring activity or concerns related to the amount of funds available (e.g., funds will expire) (10 U.S.C. 3204)

VI. Description of efforts made to ensure that offers are solicited from as many potential sources as practicable.

(FAR 6.303-2(b)(6))

Describe all efforts taken (or to be to be taken) to ensure that offers are solicited from as many potential sources as practicable under the circumstances. Although Market Research is covered in Section VIII, the information in Section VI should correlate with the Market Research described in Section VI. The following issues should be addressed in this paragraph:

Sources Sought Synopsis (used as part of market research). If a sources sought synopsis was issued, state the date the synopsis was issued and a brief description of its content. If any responses were received, describe in detail the results of the screening process and the rationale for determining the unacceptability of any synopsis respondents. Reference FAR 13.105, Synopsis and Posting Requirements.

Other Actions. In this paragraph, discuss any other actions taken or planned to facilitate competition for this acquisition. The discussion should include actions tried or considered even if the actions were unsuccessful. If the efforts were unsuccessful, so state and describe why.

Qualifying Country Sources. If qualifying country sources have expressed interest, but are to be excluded, provide supporting rationale.

VII. Determination by the Contracting Officer that the anticipated cost to the government will be fair and reasonable. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(7))

Include a statement by the contracting officer that the anticipated cost will be considered fair and reasonable and provide the basis for this determination. The steps that will be taken to ensure the final contract price will be fair and reasonable are also described here. Describe the extent of cost or price analysis anticipated including the requirements for certified cost or pricing data, technical evaluations, and audits.

VIII. Description of the market research conducted and the results, or explain why market research was not conducted. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(8))

Generally, some form of market research should be conducted. Discuss any market research conducted pursuant to FAR Part 10 and describe results of that research. Market research is any effort undertaken to determine if sources capable of satisfying the agency's requirements exist and to determine if commercial items or non-developmental items are either available or can be modified so that they will satisfy the agency's needs. Market research should be focused not only on identifying alternate sources, but also on alternate equipment or substitutes that might fulfill the Government needs with only minor modification.

Regardless of the approach used, the results should provide a high level of confidence that no other qualified sources exist.

When other exceptions from the requirement to obtain full and open competition are relied upon, the market research might be limited to an examination of the acquisition history and experience with the marketplace under previous acquisitions for the same or similar items.

If no market research was conducted, so state and provide the rationale.

IX. Any other facts supporting the use of Other Than Full and Open Competition. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(9)(i))

Provide any other facts supporting the use of other than full and open competition, including an explanation of why technical data packages, specifications, engineering descriptions, statements of work, statements of objectives, or purchase descriptions suitable for full and open competition have not been developed, are not being developed, are not being used, or are not available.

X. List of sources, if any, that expressed interest in the acquisition. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(10))

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If a sources sought synopsis was done and all interested sources are included in Section VI, it is acceptable to state, “See Section VI above.”

XI. A statement of the actions, if any, the agency may take to remove or overcome any barriers to competition before making subsequent acquisitions for the supplies or services required. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(11))

Describe any actions taken or to be taken to foster competition for future acquisitions of the supplies or services being acquired.

Describe potential actions that could be taken to remove the barriers to competition that have been identified in the justification and include a milestone schedule, where available, for accomplishing these actions. For example, if a follow-on competitive acquisition is planned, so state and provide the planned award date, or state that the Government will attempt to acquire rights in technical data and computer software sufficient to compete follow-on acquisitions as a priced option in the contract action that is the subject of this Justification, or (if applicable) state how the Government intends to challenge nonconforming markings on technical data and computer software delivered to it under previous contracts so those markings can be removed in order that the technical data and computer software may be used in support of a follow-on competitive acquisition, or describe plans to qualify additional sources.

Address efforts to ensure competition for future spare parts and maintenance in support of systems or equipment covered by the justification, even when these acquisitions will be accomplished by other organizations. Include a discussion on available breakout data.

If no actions are planned, so state and provide reasons. If approval is sought for more than one year, explain why a sole source effort is required for the planned time duration.

For a non-competitive follow-on acquisition to a previous award for the same supply or service supported by a Justification citing the same authority, include a discussion of the actions planned to overcome barriers to competition established in the previous justification, the status of those actions, and the results of those actions. The approval authority shall determine whether the planned actions were completed. If the planned actions were not completed, the justification for the follow-on acquisition shall be approved by the approval authority one-level above the approval authority for the previous justification (see FAR 13.501(a)(2)). If the previous justification was approved by the Senior Procurement Executive (SPE), the approval remains at the SPE level.

[DFARS 213.501(a) and DFARS PGI 206.304(a)(S-70)(ii)]

XII. Certification by the Contracting Officer. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(12))

As evidenced by his/her signature, the contracting officer has determined this document to be both accurate and complete to the best of his/her knowledge and belief.

XIII. Certification by the technical/requirements personnel. (FAR 6.303-2(c))

As evidenced by their signatures, the technical and/or requirements personnel have certified that any supporting data contained herein, which is their responsibility, is both accurate and complete.