JA Heat Flux Sensors_Redacted.pdf

This is a Single Source Justification (Simplified Acquisition) document for NIST-traceable calibration services of heat flux sensors in support of the 846th Test Squadron's aircraft qualification program.

The Government requires calibration of seventeen Vatell Thermage Circular-Foil Heat Flux Transducers (Model TG-2000-42C) to achieve ±3% accuracy or better using the OEM's proprietary MAP002 procedure to ensure one-to-one data comparability with previous qualification tests. The service includes a mandatory seven calendar day turnaround time from receipt at the contractor's facility to return shipment. The sole-source procurement is being awarded to Vatell Corporation, the Original Equipment Manufacturer, under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i). The contracting activity is AFTC/PZI (Arnold) – OL Holloman, with the project identified as "Heat Flux Sensor." The contracting officer's determination, signed by Charles W. King (NH-03) on 28-May-2026, concludes that only Vatell Corporation is reasonably available to fulfill this requirement.

The justification demonstrates that Government efforts to obtain competition included market research and capability inquiries sent to nine potential vendors, but none could provide the exact OEM calibration necessary to prevent unacceptable delay and financial harm to both the aircraft qualification program and the Holloman High Speed Test Track mission schedule. Section E outlines mitigation strategies for future procurements, including establishing standardized calibration procedures during initial acquisition planning phases and building standard commercial calibration lead times into mission schedules to avoid future single-source dependencies.