Redacted_JA_AFP Head 26P5429.pdf

on the XTS-400 AFP is a 6-axis system standing over 6.5 ft. tall, handling a payload of about

290 lbs., and having a max reach of over 9.6 ft. Such robotics require fully compatible hardware and software when accessories parts are added to expand capability. Full compatibility means the accessory has complete mechanical, electrical, and software compatibility with the main AFP platform. As an additional accessory, the TPFP Head must also be fully interchangeable with the existing thermoset processing head, easily swapping between the original AFP head and the TPFP head. As such, the acquisition requires installation of software that enables operation of both processing heads and supports user-initiated transition between head configurations without on-going vendor modification to the

Government owned system.

Trelleborg is the original designer of the XTS-400 AFP and the only known source with the requisite knowledge, experience, and technical expertise capable of providing a TPFP Head accessory that is fully compatible with the existing system. This assessment is based on a multitude of factors, each explained below.

AFP system manufacturers routinely hold proprietary hardware, software, capability, and data rights to their products. The XTS-400 AFP system utilizes proprietary hardware interfaces, control architecture, and software developed and maintained by Trelleborg. Only Trelleborg possesses the technical data, software rights, system knowledge, and integration capability necessary to provide a TPFP Head as an accessory that will function with the existing system while maintaining full operational capability. One third party vendor was found, Coexpair

Dynamics, which offers development of aircraft composite parts prototypes for customers and then designs and builds a part assembly system using Trelleborg AFP components for rental.

Coexpair does not provide installation, maintenance of, or accessory sales for existing, user-owned AFP systems. The acquisition requires purchase of an accessory, fully compatible with an existing, user-owned XTS-400 AFP system, which can only be fulfilled by Trelleborg due to proprietary rights.

Acquisition of a TPFP Head from an alternate source means a non-native accessory component would need to be installed on an existing AFP system. This would require substantial AFP system modifications, software redevelopment, interface redesign, integration efforts, testing, and validation of results. Robotically controlled heads require system controls to track not only their own position in 3-D space, but also how they coordinate with every connected system component across all 6-axes. This includes, but is not limited to, properly designed mechanical connections, sensors that accurately read relevant information, electrical connections that remain consistent throughout the entire field of motion, and software designed to support all system communications, control, and feedback. Moreover, the TPFP head accessory further requires integrated controls for applying needed thermal heating and mechanical pressure in specific locations and based on selected thermoplastic resin properties.

If any portion of the robotic control package and TPFP head communicates incorrectly, the

AFP can produce erratic movements, suffer component misalignment in 3-D space, or damage the composite material/part. The results can include low quality parts with degraded mechanical properties; scrapped parts due to out of tolerance results; system, building, and personnel damage/injury due to robotic components impacting itself and its surroundings;

wasted composite materials; and system downtime following system damage. These results all represent unacceptable technical risk, personnel safety risk, increased costs, and schedule delays.

The existing XTS-400 AFP system has been routinely serviced with additional accessory purchases, part replacements, and on-site calibration and maintenance by Trelleborg since its acquisition. Per previously received service agreements, if a non-native accessory were purchased and installed on the XTS-400 Trelleborg would refuse further vendor support and maintenance. To continue part production, we would be forced to accept no maintenance

(unreasonable), maintenance by our own means (unacceptable), or procure an entirely new

AFP system with fully compatible thermoset and thermoplastic heads (impractical).

Performing maintenance by our own means requires high technical risk (our personnel lack needed expertise) and high schedule risk (increased system downtime due to lack of familiarity).

6. Description of Efforts Made to Solicit Offers from as Many Offerors as Practicable.

In accordance with DFARS PGI 206.302-1(d), a Sources Sought for this requirement was posted via the SAM.gov website on 04 June 2026, with a capability statement submission date of 22 June 2026. No capabilities statements were received.

In accordance with FAR 5.201(b)(1), this requirement was synopsized via the SAM.gov website on 04 June 2026. No responses or inquiries have been received at this point. Any future responses will be evaluated by the Contracting Officer.

No additional market research was conducted because it is not practicable, for the reasons discussed in paragraph 5 above, for any company other than Trelleborg to provide the required supplies and services.

7. Determination of Fair and Reasonable Cost.

The Contracting Officer has determined the anticipated cost to the Government of the supplies/services covered by this J&A will be fair and reasonable.

8. Actions to Remove Barriers to Future Competition.

For the reasons set forth in Paragraph 5, NAWCWD has no plans at this time to compete future contracts for the types of supplies/services covered by this document. If another potential source emerges, NAWCWD will assess whether competition for future requirements is feasible.