Vertical Liner for Tunnel 9

The Department of the Air Force Materiel Command Test Center at Arnold Air Force Base has issued a Sources Sought Notice to identify qualified contractors capable of fabricating a specialized vertical liner for Tunnel 9 at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex. The procurement involves manufacturing a complex refractory sheet metal duct assembly constructed from TZM molybdenum alloy, measuring approximately 7 feet long, 6 inches in diameter, and 0.125 inches thick, with specific technical requirements including ribbed reinforcement rings, replaceable end pieces, TZM and Tungsten alloy thread pins, perforated walls, and an external alumina coating. Interested contractors must demonstrate their capabilities through submission of company information, System for Award Management Unique Entity Identifier, and a detailed capability statement. The anticipated NAICS code is 332999 with a business size standard of 750 employees, and responses must be submitted via email to Ms. Erica Anglin by 10:00 AM Central Time on June 18, 2025. Access to technical drawings requires completion of a NIST 800-171 self-assessment within three years and compliance with Distribution Statement E restrictions.

This opportunity has no set-aside designation and is open to both large and small businesses across all categories. The fabrication requirement includes one Inner Liner Assembly consisting of multiple components including one base tube, one tube end, and twelve pins made from different materials, plus an additional spare tube end, with delivery required to AEDC in Silver Spring, Maryland. Contractors must provide comprehensive material certifications complying with ASTM B386 and B387 standards, with detailed specifications for physical and mechanical properties across various temperature ranges. The specification allows for substitute materials within plus or minus 20 percent of the specified properties, subject to buyer approval, and mandates extensive documentation and certification submissions prior to part delivery. All components must be packaged in wood or plywood crates constructed with screws and marked as fragile for shipment.