Presolicitation Notice – Synopsis

NASA Glenn Research Center/GRC has a requirement for manufacturing refractory composite coupons and subcomponents in combination with related capabilities to include:

• automated fiber placement to build subcomponent structures using an industrial-scale dual-axis part rotator with the ability to perform material slitting and provide ¼-inch and ½-inch tow widths and a minimum of eight tow-lanes during build
• preforming manufacturing that enables a range of fiber architectures in multidirectional reinforcement configurations, including 3D and 4D orthogonal, 3D angle interlock, 2D, 3D and triaxial braiding, and 3D polar weaving, with the ability to work with multiple fiber types and fiber materials to produce preforms including carbon, quartz, SiC, and custom fiber configurations
• fabrication of large composite structure subcomponents in an unclassified and classified environment that are scalable to production volumes
• manufacturing capable of density control and functionally graded matrices

Manufacturing of refractory composites is a critical aspect of NASA’s continuing research in both airframe and propulsion applications and are required for mechanical testing used for material selection, structural design, and failure analysis.

NASA/GRC intends to issue a sole source contract to acquire the above manufacturing and related capabilities from Spirit Aerosystems Inc. under the authority of FAR 6.302-1, only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements.

The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12.   

Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort electronically via email to Ashlee Shaw at [email protected] not later than 5:00 PM EDT on March 29, 2024.  Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this acquisition on a competitive basis.  A determination 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