AH1 Gas Fired Air Heater
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 AFRL/RIZ at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, has issued a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation for the procurement of one AH1 Gas Fired Air Heater. This acquisition is a 100% Total Small Business Set-Aside and seeks to replace an existing unit critical for advanced propulsion systems testing. Quotes are due by July 10, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET.
Opportunity Details
This solicitation (COMBO-AFRL-PZLEQ-2026-0007) is for a commercial item: a complete, fully functional gas-fired air heater system. The system will support research and development missions at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) by providing high-pressure, high-temperature air. The contract will be awarded to the responsible offeror whose quote is most advantageous to the Government, based on Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) evaluation.
Scope of Work
The selected contractor will provide an integrated heater-burner package, including an integral forced draft burner, heating coils, heater trim, refractory, insulation, control systems, fuel train, and accessories. The system must be delivered fully assembled for ground mounting, with easy connection to government-provided utilities and clear access for maintenance. It must be capable of daily operation and restart after up to 30 days of inactivity.
Key Performance Requirements
The gas-fired air heater must meet stringent performance specifications, including:
- Process Air Flow Rate: 2.5 to 34.0 lbm/sec
- Process Air Discharge Temperature Range: 250°F to 1250°F (with +4% / -0% tolerance)
- Maximum Operating Pressure: 750 PSIG
- Maximum Continuous Operation: Up to 16 hours The system must be designed for permanent outdoor installation with robust weather and corrosion protection for a 25-year service life, complying with NFPA 85.
Deliverables & Submission
Deliverables include the complete system, on-site commissioning, on-site training for government personnel, comprehensive Operations and Maintenance (O&M) manuals, and a minimum one-year warranty. Technical acceptability requires meeting all specifications outlined in the Statement of Work (SOW) dated April 16, 2026, and Specification Sheet Section (23 80 20.20 10). Quotes must include all warranty requirements and state their validity period.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Commercial item acquisition (implied Firm Fixed-Price)
- Set-Aside: 100% Total Small Business Set-Aside
- NAICS Code: 333994 - Industrial Process Furnace and Oven Manufacturing
- Place of Performance: Wright-Patterson AFB, OH
- Delivery: FOB Destination, 45 Weeks After Date of Award
- Quotes Due: July 10, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET
- Submission Method: Email quotes to the primary point of contact.
Contact Information
For questions and quote submission, contact Mike Hornberger, Contract Specialist, at michael.hornberger.1@us.af.mil.