Automated Universal Test System

NASA/ MSFC has a requirement for an Automated Universal Test System intended for automated mechanical testing of rigid plastic specimens within a shielded research facility that support tensile, flexural, and compression testing in accordance with standard test methods, with minimal operator interaction and optional future integration into remote-handling environments. The required system shall provide a minimum 100 kN test capability and automated tensile, compression, and flexural testing on a common platform. Required functions include automated specimen handling, specimen dimensional measurement, strain measurement/extensometry, data acquisition, specimen identification and traceability, and unattended batch testing. Due to constrained laboratory floor space, the system must provide these capabilities within a compact installed footprint.

The work done at MSFC with radioactive materials requires a mechanical test system that can be used to test radioactive materials in a safe environment, such as the hot cells in MSFC building 4475. This system will be delivered to that building and will be installed in one of two hot cells. NASA/MSFC intends to issue a sole source contract to acquire the items from Instron, doing business as Illinois Tool Works, Inc. under the authority of FAR 6.103-1, 10 U.S.C. 3204(a)(1), Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. Selection of Instron preserves compatibility with existing Government-owned Instron equipment, established test methods, accessories, software, operator training, and data workflows. Market research identified multiple commercial manufacturers of universal materials testing machines and automated specimen-handling systems. However, the Government requirement is not solely for a universal testing machine or automated tensile tester. And due to constrained laboratory floor space, the system must provide these capabilities within a compact installed footprint.

The Instron AT3 Floor Model provides up to 300 kN capacity and automated tensile, compression, and flexural testing within an approximately 5 ft × 7 ft footprint. It additionally integrates specimen measurement, handling, data acquisition, and disposal within a commercially supported system. Based on the market research performed, Instron was the only commercially available system identified that satisfies the complete combination of force, test-mode automation, and laboratory-footprint requirements.

The Government intends to acquire a commercial product or service using FAR Part 12.

Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort electronically via email to Cynthia Hubbard at Cynthia.a.hubbard@nasa.gov or Annette Hawkins at Annette.Hawkins@nasa.gov not later than 5:00 P.M. C.D.T. on September 04, 2026. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct this acquisition on a competitive basis. A decision by the Government not to compete this acquisition on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government.

NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at : https://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/procurement/regs/Procurement-Ombuds-Comp-Advocate-Listing.pdf