Sole Source - Universal Testing Machine

Notice of Intent to Sole Source

The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation), single source requirement for a MTS Systems Electromechanical Universal Testing Machine (UTM). under NIACS Code 334519 Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing.

Currently, Reclamation’s Rock Mechanics Laboratory, exclusively utilizes other UTMs and equipment along with their associated software, from MTS Systems, to complete all their required testing and analysis functions. The determination not to compete this proposed Order was made pursuant to the 10 USC 2304 (c)(1) and Federal Acquisition Regulation 13.106-1(b)(1)(ii), – only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. The Government anticipates award by September 2023.


The MTS Systems Electromechanical Universal Testing Machine (UTM) specifications that are required to meet the compatible with our existing MTS system setup:
1. Force capacity of 300 kN
2. Max vertical displacement rate of 30 in/min
3. Minimum vertical displacement rate of 0.0002 in/min
4. Vertical position resolution of 0.0000019 in
5. Vertical test space of 72 inches
6. Distance between columns of 25 inches
1. A test enclosure to protect the operator
The UTM test frame must include:
1. A low vibration electromechanical drive with AC servomotor and amp; Note: hydraulic or pneumatic systems are not acceptable
2. Non-clutched drive
3. Digital closed loop controls integrated into the load frame
4. A control handset system
5. A digital controller capable of
a. 1000 Hz control loop rate
b. Up to 1000 Hz data acquisition rate
6. A two-column, floor standing system capable of compression and tension
The system must also include:
1. A hoist ring assembly
2. A T-slot table assembly
a. Rated to 67 kips, 23”x21.7”x2.8”, compatible with the load frame
3. Load cells with required mounting equipment to interface with the load frame, all attachment kits included
a. 67-, 22-, 11-, and 4.5-kip capacities
4. Multichannel data acquisition system for up to 16 channels of signal conditioning and data acquisition
5. Multichannel data acquisition option, analog inputs for up to 4 analog signals
6. Multichannel data acquisition option, load cells and extensometers for up to 4 full bridge devices
7. MTS computer with WIN10, 64 bit, 16 GB RAM, 2x500 GB hardrive, desktop system
a. Must be designed to interface directly with UTM system
b. Must include a monitor
8. Compression platens rated to 40,000 psi dynamic and 100,000 psi static
a. 6-inch diameter
9. Two single axial strain measurement kits with +/- 4mm max
a. MTS Model 632.11F-90
b. Gage length extender 632.15C-30 Option 003, extended gage length 50mm
c. Gage length extender 632.15C-30 Option 003, extended gage length 100mm
d. Cable assembly with RJ50 to PT connector
10. Circumferential strain measurement kit, +12.5/-2.5 mm max chordal travel
a. Chordal travel must be able to be corrected to obtain circumferential travel
b. MTS Model 632.12F-20
c. Circumferential Chain Kits for 56 mm (2.2 in), 100 mm (4.3 in), 160 mm (6.3 inch) Diameter Specimens
d. Cable Assembly; Extensometer with RJ50 to PT connector

3.1 Onsite installation and commissioning, onsite calibration, onsite basic operator training (including travel expenses for the trainer)

3.2 Control and analysis software & guides
e. MTS TestSuite TW Elite Software
f. MTS TestSuite TW Strain 1 and 2 Option
g. MTS TestSuite TW Multi-Channel Option
h. MTS TestSuite Reporter Add-In
i. Software support plan year 1

3.3 MTS Test Suite TWE Training and Consulting Package
a. Four-day training course for up to eight students to be held at Reclamation facility.
b. Training date and time to be determined after the system has been installed, commissioned, calibrated, and basic operator training has been completed.

This is the only Notice that will be published. A determination by the Government not to compete this requirement based upon response to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government.
Delivery/Installation and Training:
Within 365 days after award.
This notice of intent to award a sole source purchase order is not a request for competitive proposals.
However, in accordance with FAR 5.207(c)(16)(ii), all responsible sources that feel they can meet the Government's requirements detailed above may submit a capability statement which shall be considered by the agency. Responses to this notice shall contain sufficient information to establish the interested parties' bona-fide capabilities for fulfilling the requirements. All offerors must have an active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) www.sam.gov, and must include in their Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) Number, and the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) with their submission.
All responses must be received by 12:00 pm MST on, September 15, 2023. Responses must be submitted electronically to Gene Parrill via email at gparrill@usbr.gov. Telephone responses will not be considered.