Notice of Intent to Sole Source- ElectroForce Apex 1

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Research and Development Center (ERDC) intends to issue a sole source award to TA Instruments – Waters, LLC to procure an ElectroForce Apex 1 mechanical testing system. The system should have dynamic mechanical analysis capabilities to support material characterization and processing. It will be used to understand polymeric and composite materials at various strains, frequencies, tensile, and compressive rates. The instrument should be able to characterize polymeric materials up to a peak force of 1,000 N, acceleration of up to 20 g, and have a displacement range and dynamic stroke of 100 mm. Key features include tension/torsion grips, compression platens, and 3- and 4-point bend fixtures. The instrument should use TRIOS software package and include installation, training, and a computer capable of running the software. • The ElectroForce Apex 1 should meet exact government specifications. • The instrument should be compatible with WinTest. • The DMA application kit should be included. • Instrument support should be through 24 months. • The contractor should provide a description of their past experience in fulfilling requirements similar to this one. • References should be provided for each past experience.