Automated Smoke Point Instrument
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 Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC/PZIBB) at Wright-Patterson AFB intends to award a sole-source Firm Fixed-Price (FFP) Commercial Purchase Order to DC Scientific, Inc. for one Automated Smoke Point Instrument. This instrument is required by the Aerospace Fuels Laboratory (AFPET/PTPLE) at Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA, for specification testing of Aviation Turbine Fuels. This notice is not a request for proposals, but responses from interested parties will be considered to determine if a competitive procurement is in the government's best interest. Responses are due by May 18, 2026, at 1300 Eastern Time.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for one Automated Smoke Point Instrument that complies with ASTM D1322-24 for smoke point testing on Aviation Turbine Fuels and Kerosene-based Propellants. The instrument package must include a Wick Trimmer Set, Wick Tube, and 50 compatible wicks. Key requirements include:
- Automatic ASTM D1322 testing capability.
- Flame height reading from 0.0 to 50.0 mm with 0.05 mm resolution.
- Integrated temperature, pressure, and humidity sensors with automatic compensation.
- Data storage capacity of >2GB.
- On-site installation, performance verification, and a minimum of four hours of training at Vandenberg SFB.
- Technical support with a response time of no more than 3 business days.
- Benchtop unit, weighing \u2264 50 lbs., dimensions \u2264 24"x24"x24".
- Standard 100-240V, 50/60Hz electrical configuration.
- Two-year extended warranty for OEM parts and services.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price (FFP) Commercial Purchase Order
- Action Type: Sole Source (supported by an approved Single Source Justification)
- NAICS Code: 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 employees)
- Place of Performance: Aerospace Fuels Laboratory, Vandenberg AFB, CA
- Delivery & Installation: Within 12 weeks after contract award.
- Response Due: May 18, 2026, at 1300 Eastern Time
- Published Date: May 8, 2026
Evaluation
This is a Notice of Intent to award a sole-source contract. No solicitation package will be issued. Responses received will be considered solely to determine if conducting a competitive procurement is in the best interest of the Government. The Single Source Justification states that DC Scientific, Inc. is the exclusive authorized representative in the USA for AD Systems, the manufacturer of the required ASTM D1322 Automated Smoke Point instrument, making them the only vendor meeting specifications.
Additional Notes
Responses and questions must be submitted via email to jennifer.blackford@us.af.mil and eve.aden@us.af.mil.