Instron Model 9440 Drop Tower System with Bluehill Impact software

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has issued a Special Notice for the procurement of an Instron Model 9440 Drop Tower System with Bluehill Impact software through the NASA/NSSC (National Space Science Center). This specialized equipment is intended for the Marshall Space Flight Center to conduct damage tolerance testing on composite materials. The opportunity is classified as a total small business set-aside, meaning only small businesses can compete for this contract. The solicitation was posted on March 28, 2025, with a submission deadline of April 1, 2025. The procurement falls under the Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing NAICS category.

The primary objective of this procurement is to acquire a comprehensive drop tower system with specific technical requirements, including an impact energy range up to 405J, maximum drop mass of 37.5 kg, and a velocity range of 0.77 to 4.65 m/s. The successful contractor will be responsible for delivering and installing the system at NASA MSFC Central Receiving in Huntsville, AL, with a performance period of 10-12 weeks after receipt of order and a need-by date of June 30, 2025. Contractors must provide the drop tower system, accompanying software, and various accessories, including a steel base, light tup holder, and instrumented tup. The procurement includes comprehensive requirements for system installation, calibration, functional testing, and operational demonstration. Additionally, the contractor must provide on-site training for operators, complete user documentation, and a minimum 12-month warranty, with acceptance contingent upon successful installation, calibration validation, and demonstration of test procedures.