INSTRON- SSBJ Redacted.pdf

This is a Sole Source Justification document for a Firm Fixed Price procurement of an Instron Calibration System for use in the Bomber SI lab by the Air Force Test Center (AFTC) at Edwards Air Force Base, California. The estimated contract cost is $255,476.00, with the contracting authority under AFFARS 5313.501 for Simplified Acquisition Procedures, and the purchase request number F150AYS183A001 / ACQ-25-H87.

The procurement specifies the Instron Model 68TM-50 Table Mounted Materials Testing System with extensive options and accessories, including various load cells, testing adapters, debris shields, grips, software packages, on-site services, training, warranties, and installation. The system requires specific capabilities including collision mitigation, specimen protection, auto-positioning, high-speed data acquisition (5,000 Hz), torsion functionality, and Active Directory security integration. The sole source justification is based on the Bomber Data Lab's specific operational requirements for high count sensor programs and the fact that Instron is the original equipment manufacturer and sole manufacturer of the 68TM-50 system model. Market research efforts included browsing GSA Advantage, internet searches, and posting a Sources Sought Notice on SAM.gov, which yielded only two responses (one from Instron and one from BHPE), with no other viable alternatives identified. The document was approved by Christina M. Day, NH-03 on August 5, 2025, and includes a commitment to continue searching for alternatives in future acquisitions.