AFRL/RWTE Explosive-Resistant Friction Ovens
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Air Force, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), has issued a Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) to identify Small Business concerns capable of providing two (2) explosive-resistant friction ovens. These ovens are required for AFRL/RWTE at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, to support drying, curing, and accelerated aging studies of energetic materials. This is for market research only and is not a solicitation for offers. Responses are due by June 08, 2026.
Scope of Requirement
AFRL/RWTE requires two friction ovens designed for handling energetic materials. The ovens must be capable of:
- Drying and curing energetic materials stored in liquid solutions.
- Supporting accelerated aging studies through controlled heating and cooling cycles.
Key Technical Specifications
The ovens must meet stringent requirements, including:
- Intrinsic Safety: Designed to prevent ignition of materials.
- Hazardous Location Operation: Suitable for Class I/Division I areas.
- Dimensions: Approximately W 37" x D 34" x H 42" interior.
- Temperature Range: Operating from 40°C to 90°C, with a maximum of at least 120°C.
- Control: Local or remote operation from over 300ft away.
- Component Safety: All motors, hinges, and wiring must be suitable for Class I/Division I.
- Air Circulation: Uniform heat distribution.
- Trays: Three material trays (approx. W 36" x D 33" x H 1") with 175 lbs capacity each.
- Purging System: NFPA compliant for Class I and II, Groups D & E environments.
- Spares & Warranty: Include a spare PLC and HMI dashboard, and a minimum 1-year warranty.
Submission Details
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: Specifically seeking Small Business concerns.
- Response Due: Monday, June 08, 2026, at 12:00 pm Eastern Standard Time.
- Submission Method: Email capability packages to Christof Olp-Weakland at christopher.olp-weakland@us.af.mil.
- Email Subject Line: "SS-AFRL-RIZ-2026-0018 AFRL/RWTE Explosive-Resistant Friction Ovens"
- Information Requested: Company details (CAGE, POC, etc.), Small Business status (including 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, EDWOSB, WOSB), relevant capability/experience, item specifications/brochures, potential teammates, identified risks, and GSA contract information (if applicable).
- Allowed Attachments: .pdf, .doc, .docx, .xls, or .xlsx. (.zip or .exe files are not allowed).
Additional Notes
This notice is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a commitment by the Government to award a contract. Responses will not be considered quotes or offers, and the Government will not pay for preparation costs. Submissions become Government property.