9250-27-R-RFIN-00020

Mississippi State University is proceeding with a sole-source purchase of induction melting equipment under Notice 267-045, with objections due October 13, 2026. The procurement is restricted to UltraFlex Power Technologies UltraMelt TF-40 furnaces and associated equipment; no competitive bidding occurs.

The scope consists of two UltraMelt TF-40 tilting induction melting furnaces, one Hasklis WC-HO-46 chilled cooling system configured for dual-furnace operation at 100% duty cycle, and four spare graphite crucibles. The furnaces are engineered to melt approximately 40 pounds of aluminum in 15 minutes and feature handheld remote controllers for automated and safe pouring of molten metal. The equipment will support the Metallurgical Engineering Trade Apprenticeships and Learning (METAL) program for undergraduate instruction and research in casting processes for aluminum, brass, and other non-ferrous metals in a laboratory setting.

The estimated contract value is $114,779.00, which includes a university educational discount of $8,624.00. Mississippi State University justified the sole-source designation after evaluating alternative induction melting technologies. A competing quote of $155,760.10 was obtained; however, the alternative system required manual pouring and exhibited longer melt times, rendering it unsuitable for scheduled laboratory operations. The university determined that the UltraMelt TF-40 is the only available solution meeting its specific operational, educational, safety, and spatial requirements. Induction Technology Corporation, the sole designer and distributor of the specified equipment, will provide start-up assistance and training.

Objections to the sole-source designation must be submitted in writing to Jennifer Mayfield, Director of Procurement Services, with detailed documentation supporting an alternative source capability.