FT_Machine_WBR_1413_106-1_Determination_to_solicit_from_a_single_source_under_SAT__FAR_13_1.pdf

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FREEZE THAW MACHINE Federal contract opportunity
Solicitation number
140R4026Q0026
Issued by
Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation

About this file

This is a Determination to Solicit from a Single Source document for the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, UCB Office (Solicitation Number: 140R4026Q0026). The contracting activity seeks to procure a Scientemp FT20-40 freeze-thaw chamber capable of testing at least 40 standard concrete specimens (3 inches by 4 inches by 16 inches) simultaneously with the ability to run tests per ASTM C666 Procedures A and B. The estimated cost is $98,000.00, with delivery required within one year of award.

The determination justifies single-source procurement based on market research confirming that alternative manufacturers only offer units with capacities of approximately 18 specimens, which do not meet the laboratory's large-scale testing requirements. Scientemp Corporation, located at 3565 S. Adrian Hwy, Adrian, MI 49221, is identified as the sole manufacturer capable of providing the required 40-specimen capacity, ASTM C666 compliance, precise temperature cycling, and integrated commissioning, training, and lifecycle support services. The procurement is further justified by urgency, as this is a re-solicitation following termination of a prior contract (140R8123P0091 awarded at $129,990.00) for non-performance, leaving the program two years behind schedule. Price analysis techniques applied include comparison to the Independent Government Cost Estimate (IGCE) of $98,000, market research, GSA schedule pricing review, and prior pricing history. The vendor's estimated price of $95,465 is $2,535 lower than the IGCE, supporting price reasonableness. ConnieAnn A. Tudela-Kately prepared and signed the determination as the Contracting Officer on February 17, 2026.

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Solicitation Number: 140R4026Q0026 Page 1 of 3

WBR 1413.106-1 Template 1 eFile - B02

(11/2020)

DETERMINATION TO SOLICIT FROM A SINGLE SOURCE

Pursuant to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 13.106-1(b)(1)(i), for purchases not exceeding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT) Contracting Officers may solicit from only one source if the circumstances of the contract action deem only one source is reasonably available (e.g., urgency, exclusive licensing agreements, brand name, or industrial mobilization).

Pursuant to FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(ii), when a single source is identified to provide a portion of the purchase as a Brand-Name, the documentation in paragraph 3 must state that this determination is only for a portion of the requirement.

1. Agency and Contracting Activity.

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, UCB Office.

2. Name and Address of Single Source.

Scientemp Corporation 3565 S. Adrian Hwy, Adrian, MI 49221

3. Description of Supplies/Services and Estimated Cost.

Scientemp FT20-40 freeze-thaw chamber capable of testing at least 40 standard specimens simultaneously is required. A “Standard Specimen” is considered 3-inches by 4-inches by 16-inches in size. The chamber must be able to run tests per ASTM C666 Procedure A and Procedure B.

Delivery Schedule: Within 1 Year of Award

Estimated Cost: $98,000.00

4. Description of Circumstances, including why only one source is reasonably available.

IAW FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(ii), specific characteristics of the Scientemp Model FT20-40 Freeze Thaw Cabinet that limit the availability to a sole source are:

A single, self-contained freeze-thaw chamber capable of accommodating at least 40 standard concrete specimens simultaneously and performing ASTM C666 Procedures A and B with precise temperature control, programmable cycles, and uniformity across all specimens. The FT20-40 includes integrated system commissioning, specialized operator training, technical assistance, and readily available replacement parts to ensure uninterrupted operation. Unlike general-purpose freezing equipment, this model is specifically engineered for concrete durability testing and incorporates customer-driven design features optimized for ASTM C666 compliance.

Solicitation Number: 140R4026Q0026 Page 2 of 3

Only this suggested source can furnish the requirements, to the exclusion of other sources, because:

Market research confirmed that alternative manufacturers only offer units with maximum capacities of approximately 18 specimens, which does not meet the laboratory’s large-scale testing requirements or schedule constraints. No other vendor combines the required 40-specimen capacity, ASTM C666 compliance, precise temperature cycling, and lifecycle support services in a single cabinet. Scientemp is recognized as an industry leader in concrete freeze/thaw testing equipment and provides the necessary commissioning, training, and parts support. Additionally, this is a re-solicitation following termination of a prior contract for non-performance, leaving the program two years behind schedule. Procuring from Scientemp is critical to meet urgent testing deadlines and avoid further delays that would cause serious impact to program milestones.

5. Determination of Fair and Reasonable Price.

Price Analysis Techniques (FAR 13.106-3(a)(2)) Applied

(i) Comparison to IGCE: The vendor’s market research estimated price ($95,465) is $2,535 lower than the IGCE ($98,000), indicating alignment with Government expectations and supporting reasonableness.

(ii) Market Research: IGCE was developed using open market research and GSA schedule pricing for similar equipment, confirming the proposed price is consistent with prevailing market rates.

(iii) Prior Pricing: Historical pricing for similar freeze-thaw systems (where available) was considered in the IGCE development; To include previously award and terminated contract 140R8123P0091 for $129,990.00.

(iv) Technical Evaluation: The proposed price includes commissioning, training, and warranty, which are essential for meeting ASTM C666 compliance and operational readiness.

(vii) Other Reasonable Basis: The vendor’s market research estimate includes detailed specifications matching the Government’s minimum essential characteristics, and the vendor is the only source identified that meets these requirements.

6. Description of Market Research.

Scientemp Corporation (Adrian, MI) is the manufacturer of the FT20-40 concrete freeze– thaw cabinet. They produce and sell the unit directly, including options for commissioning, spare parts, and technical support.

Solicitation Number: 140R4026Q0026 Page 3 of 3

Scientemp’s brochures confirm compliance with ASTM C666, capacity configurations (20, 40, 60, 80 block), touchscreen controls, USB/data logging, and optional network setup for technical support.

No distributor listings specific to the FT20-40 model were found.

Sole Source Letter Received from Scientemp on February 16th, 2026, certifying that they are the sole manufacturer of the required Freeze Thaw Machine and that they do not have any distributors or resellers for the Freeze Thaw Machines.

SIGNATURES

PREPARED BY:

Name: ConnieAnn A. Tudela-Kately

Date:

CONTRACTING OFFICER (CO) (FAR 13.106-1(b)):(All Values)

Name: ConnieAnn A. Tudela-Kately

Date:

X

X

2026-02-17T13:45:46-0600
CONNIEANN TUDELA-KATELY
2026-02-17T13:46:04-0600
CONNIEANN TUDELA-KATELY

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