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This document is a NASA Shared Services Center Recommendation and Determination to Solicit from One Source or Brand Name form, specifically a Brand Name Justification for procuring SOR T21 Thermal Differential Flow Switches. NASA recommends negotiating exclusively with vendors who can provide the SOR T21 Thermal Differential Switch from PTLF Process LLC, with an estimated delivery date of November 1st, 2025. The justification highlights the switch's unique characteristics, including compatibility with existing monitoring equipment, specialized thermal differential sensing for low-pressure air systems (3-11 psi), and cost-effectiveness compared to alternative models like the Sierra 620S flow switch.

The document details three primary reasons for the sole source procurement: 1) seamless integration with existing facility monitoring systems without requiring modifications, 2) unique thermal differential sensing capabilities suitable for low-pressure operating ranges, and 3) significant cost savings in both initial purchase price and long-term maintenance. A representative from PTLF Process LLC has already conducted a site visit to obtain technical information and identify the specific sensor requirements, which further supports the recommendation to procure these specific thermal differential flow switches from the proposed vendor.

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Page 1 V2.0 3-15-2017

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

NASA SHARED SERVICES CENTER

RECOMMENDATION AND DETERMINATION TO SOLICIT FROM ONE SOURCE

OR BRAND NAME

PICK ONE

Sole Source:

☐I recommend that NASA, NASA Shared Services Center negotiate with Vendor for Product. The total estimated cost of this effort is Cost (estimated) and the estimated period of performance is Date.

OR

Brand Name Justification:

☒I recommend that NASA, NASA Shared Services Center negotiate with only with vendors who can provide the subject band name from SOR Inc for T21 Thermal Differential Switch in the attached quote. The total estimated cost of this effort is and the estimated period of performance or lead-time for delivery is November 1st, 2025 .

This recommendation is for the acquisition of supplies or services determined to be reasonably available from only one source/only one manufacture. Competition is impractical for the following reasons (please answer the questions below):

1. What are the reasons for soliciting only the suggested source/suggested brand name? Please provide the unique characteristics of the items or services along with the supporting rationale and the market research performed to substantiate your reason for the suggested source/brand name.

The SOR T21 Thermal Differential Flow Switch is a device that uses a matched Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) pair in a twin-tip stainless steel configuration to detect flow in low-pressure air systems.

These sensors are perfectly suited to the facility’s operational requirements for the following reasons:

1. Compatibility – The SOR T21 model matches the facility’s existing monitoring equipment and control system inputs, ensuring seamless integration without requiring modifications to wiring, control logic, or alarm interfaces.

2. Unique Features – The thermal differential sensing method is an important feature for the low operating pressure range of 3–11 psi.

3. Cost Effectiveness – The SOR T21 model provides equivalent or better operational performance at a significantly lower cost compared to the Sierra 620S flow switch, which has an approximate purchase price of . The SOR T21’s lower cost reduces initial procurement expenses and offers substantial long-term savings in maintenance and calibration costs.

2. What is the impact to the government if another vendor/brand is used? Include any dollar, schedule, or compatibility impacts if possible.

Based on the above justification, it is in the best interest of the facility to procure the SOR T21 Thermal Differential Flow Switches and associated materials from PTLF Process LLC . A representative from the company already performed a site visit to obtain technical information and identify the sensor needed.

This approach ensures technical compatibility, operational reliability, and compliance with facility standards while minimizing risk.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:

File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .