Automated Investment Casting Cell

The Department of the Air Force Materiel Command Air Force Sustainment Center is seeking a turn-key purchase of an Automated Investment Casting Cell to be installed in Building 9001. The solicitation (FA8125-25-R-0005) requires a robotic system capable of automatically coating wax pattern trees in ceramic slurry and sand for producing shell molds to support Air Force Weapon Systems. Key technical requirements include a robotic arm that can lift 100 pounds, rotate parts up to 21x17x10 inches, with positional repeatability within 0.1mm, and a drying chamber that can simultaneously process 48 part trees. The contractor must provide comprehensive installation, 5 days of training for 4 operators, technical documentation, and a 365-day warranty. Proposals are due by March 14, 2025, with the solicitation posted on March 7, 2025, and the system must comply with OSHA, NFPA, and NEMA regulations.

The solicitation is not set aside for any specific type of business and is open to qualified contractors in the Aluminum Foundries sector (NAICS 331524). The system will be powered by a 460-volt, 3-phase power supply and requires precise infrastructure specifications, including a lift pump to be installed within 25 feet of the robot cell for drainage. The drying chamber will be approximately 21' x 26', and the shell weight requirement is at least 100 pounds. Tinker Air Force Base will supply the chilled water system, and the contractor will be responsible for integrating all components into a fully functional, automated casting cell. While specific award value details are not explicitly stated, the complexity of the system suggests a significant investment in advanced manufacturing technology for supporting Air Force weapon system production.