Intergranular Corrosion Testing of Aluminum Test Samples

The U.S. Forest Service is conducting Market Research, Sources Sought for interested Vendors that can perform Intergranular Corrosion testing of aluminum test samples (2024-T3 alloy) via etching using Keller’s reagent (metallurgical) and metallurgically to examine provided test specimens under 40X magnification (or as appropriate) using appropriate equipment in accordance with USDA, Forest Service Specification FS 5100-304d, section 4.4.2.  Test samples provided will have been pre-exposed to co-mingled Long-Term Retardant products.  Vendor shall provide all labor, test site, test equipment, and expertise necessary to accomplish the following:

•           Photograph and record visual observations prior to cross sectioning each specimen

•           Cross section and polish each test specimen (note all cross sections shall follow the guidance of FS 5100-304d. (See attachment section for dimensions)

•           Etch using Keller’s reagent (metallurgical) and metallurgically examine the test specimen under 40X magnification (or as appropriate) using appropriate equipment.

•           Capture optical micrographs of each polish up to 3 times across all examinations.

•           Issue final report with all data and findings within three (3) weeks of receipt of test samples.

Vendor shall be ISO 9001:2008 certified.  Vendor must have experienced personnel familiar with intergranular attack and the U.S. Forest Service specification and procedures. This includes:

•           U.S. Forest Service Specification FS 5100-304d

•           American Society for Testing and Materials. Standard Guide for Preparation of Metallographic Specimens; E3-01(2007).

•           American Society for Testing and Materials. Standard Test Method for Macroetching Metals and Alloys; E340-00(2006).

•           American Society for Testing and Materials. Standard Practice for Microetching Metals and Alloys; E407-07.

Responses to this Notice, including any statements of capabilities, must be submitted directly to Christopher Kirk via e-mail message at chris.kirk@usda.gov no later than 1430 (2:30) PM MTN, January 19, 2022.  DO NOT send any responses to this notice via US Postal Mail, facsimilie transmission, or any other physical delivery method.  Any questions regarding this notice must be submitted directly to Christopher Kirk via e-mail message at chris.kirk@usda.gov or by phone at (208) 387-5665 office, or (208) 616-5549 mobile.

Note that this is an effort to obtain Market Research only and that Offers or Proposals are not being requested nor accepted at this time. The issuance of the Notice, nor reciept of any response to this Notice, does not imply or guarantee any future order will be placed or any further oportunities will provided.

Other Product/Service Codes that may be applicable to this Notice; 

H242   Equipment and Materials Testing- Fire Fighting, Rescue, and Safety Equipment; Environmental Protection Equipment and Materials

H299   Equipment and Materials Testing- Miscellaneous