Additive Manufacturing (AM) Angled Walls and Laser System Characterization

NASA's Shared Services Center has issued a Special Notice announcing its intent to award a sole source contract to the University of Texas El Paso (UTEP) for Additive Manufacturing (AM) Angled Walls and Laser System Characterization. The procuring entity determined that UTEP is the sole provider capable of performing this specialized research effort, which will be executed under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i). Performance will take place at a NASA Select Center, and the work falls under the Higher Education sector (NAICS 611310) and General Science & Technology R&D Services (PSC AK14). This Special Notice provides an opportunity for interested organizations to challenge the sole source determination before contract award.

The primary objective of this contract is to advance additive manufacturing research supporting NASA's Game Changing Development "Additive Manufacturing for Propulsion" initiative and the Space Launch System Liquid Engines Office projects. The work comprises four tasks focused on characterizing Inconel 718 samples produced through different additive manufacturing methods, evaluating laser system performance, and analyzing powder material variations, with all activities involving 50% cost sharing between NASA and UTEP. Interested contractors must submit written capabilities and qualifications demonstrating their ability to perform the work by 2:00 p.m. Central Standard Time on March 6, 2026. The government will evaluate all responses solely to determine whether to convert this procurement to a competitive basis, though the final decision remains at the government's sole discretion. Oral submissions are not acceptable, and prospective contractors should direct inquiries to Monica D. Wilson (Procurement Assistant) or Shari Trigg (Lead Contract Specialist) at the provided NASA contact information.