Rigging and Repair of Wind Tunnel Motor-Generator Set
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 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting market research via a Sources Sought notice to identify qualified sources for the rigging and repair of a wind tunnel motor-generator set in Gaithersburg, MD. The generator, a Reliance Model 8002A-S, has failed and requires extensive repair to restore the wind tunnel's power system. The estimated value for this repair is $500,000. Responses are due by April 22, 2026.
Background & Scope of Work
The NIST Sensor Science Division's Fluid Metrology Group (FMG) relies on a specialized wind tunnel for SI-traceable airspeed measurements. The generator component of its motor-generator set (Reliance, Serial 1UP893611T1-KT & 1XP893611A1-JT, Model 8002A-S & 5808S) has failed due to worn brushes and commutator damage. The required services include:
- Rigging and Transport: Disconnecting power, removing the generator from NIST Building 230, transporting it to a repair facility, and returning/re-installing it.
- Extensive Repair: Performing incoming electrical testing, removing/cleaning/repairing 12 obsolete brush boxes, disassembling/inspecting, cleaning/baking armature and field frame, testing fields/interpoles, testing bearings/housings. This also includes lathe checking armature, turning/undercutting commutator, balancing armature, assembling with new bearings, and running on a test stand at full specifications.
- Component Replacement/Refurbishment: Repairing/manufacturing/procuring brush holders, cleaning/stoning commutator, installing brush boxes, and seating brushes.
- Motor Maintenance: Replacing two new bearings in the motor portion and new brushes in the main fan drive motor.
- Startup Support: Standing by for successful startup of the motor-generator set.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Estimated Value: $500,000
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Product Service Code: J066 (Maintenance, Repair And Rebuilding Of Equipment: Instruments And Laboratory Equipment)
- Response Due: April 22, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Published: April 8, 2026
- Place of Performance: Gaithersburg, MD 20899
Response Requirements
Interested parties should submit responses via email to the Primary Point of Contact. Responses, limited to 20 pages, should include:
- Company information (name, address, contact, UEI).
- Details of equipment/solutions that meet objectives, including manufacturer, model, technical specifications, and reseller status.
- Performance capabilities, customization options, and any aspects of the notice that cannot be met.
- Information on US manufacturing, NAICS code (small/other business status, alternative NAICS suggestions).
- Available services (installation, training, maintenance), standard terms and conditions, facility renovation capabilities, pricing, and existing Federal Supply Schedule contracts.
- Customer references and any other valuable information for NIST.
Additional Notes
This is for market research only and does not constitute a commitment to issue a solicitation or award a contract. NIST reserves the right to use information provided for any purpose. Respondents will not be acknowledged or receive feedback.