Synopsys of proposed contract action for Ayalytical Instruments, Inc. to procure a vapor pressure analyzer.  The minimum requirements for the vapor pressure analyzer are as follows:

•·         The instrument must have a modular design to allow for different capabilities (measurement of high viscosity liquids, low vapor pressure liquids, etc.) to ensure maximum flexibility without needing to purchase multiple instruments.

•·         The temperature range of the instrument must be at least 0 to 120 C.

•·         The temperature stability of the instrument must be at least 0.01 C.

•·         The measureable vapor-liquid ration should be variable from 0.02/1 up to 100/1 depending on the method used.

•·         The pressure resolution of the instrument should be at least 0.01 kPa, with an accuracy of at least 0.2 kPa (0.028 psi).

•·         Sample volume should be 1 mL, with a rinse cycle of 2.2 mL maximum that can be accomplished by either the sample or a solvent.

•·         The instrument should have a color touch screen that is at least 7" in size.

•·         The instrument should have an automated calibration routine with a 10 point probe offset table.

In order to fully characterize these material and provide comparison to state of the art propellants, a vapor pressure analyzer instrument is required.  The instrument will further the research capabilities of the S&E's at Edward AFRL.

 The Air Force Test Center (AFTC), Directorate of Contracting, Installation Contracting Division (PZRA), on behalf of The Air Force Research Laboratories (AFRL/RQR) at Edwards Air Force Base (EAFB) in California, intends to issue an award to Ayalytical Instruments, Inc. on a sole source basis in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1). The anticipated contract will be a Firm Fixed Price (FFP).

The statutory authority which permits a solicitation from one source is FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i). This authority is supported by an approved Sole Source Justification Letter. It is the Government's intent to proceed with as a single source action. The applicable NAICS code is 334513. The size standard as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration is 750 employees.

 This notice neither constitutes an RFQ/RFP or an Invitation for Bid (IFB), nor does it restrict the Government in any way to an ultimate acquisition approach. All responsible sources may submit a capability statement, proposal, or quotation which shall be considered by the government. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR QUOTE OR PROPOSAL AND IS NOT TO BE CONSIDERED AS A COMMITMENT BY THE GOVERNMENT.

 AFTC has appointed an Ombudsman to hear concerns from potential offerors relating to this acquisition. The Ombudsman does not diminish the authority of the Program Director or Contracting Officer, but communicates contractor concerns, issues, disagreements, and recommendations to the appropriate Government personnel. When requested, the Ombudsman will maintain strict confidentiality as to the source of the concern. The Ombudsman does not participate in the evaluation of proposals or in the source selection process. Matters of a routine or administrative nature concerning this acquisition should not be addressed to the Ombudsman, but rather the Contracting Officer, Ms. Chelsi Creamer. For any concerns, interested parties may call the Air Force Test Center Ombudsman, Air Force Test Center Vice Commander, 1 South

Rosamond Blvd, Edwards AFB, CA 93524-3784, phone number (661) 277-2810, facsimile number (661) 277-7593.

For further information, contact the Contracting Specialist, Maria Estevane, AFTC/PZRA, (661) 277-8447 or the Contracting Officer, Chelsi Creamer, AFTC/PZRA (661) 277-1993. This synopsis is for information and planning purposes only. It does not constitute an invitation for bid or a request for Quotation or proposal and is not to be construed as a commitment by the Government. No costs will be paid for any charges incurred in responding to this synopsis.