EDXRF SPECTROMETER

The Department of the Air Force intends to award a firm fixed-price, sole source purchase order to Gatan, L.L.C., based in Pleasanton, California, for the procurement of a commercial micro-focusing energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (μEDXRF) spectrometer, specifically the EDAX Orbis II model. This acquisition supports the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, to meet critical analytical chemistry requirements for aircraft and jet engine maintenance, including chemical analysis of metals, wear debris, plating, and corrosion products. The spectrometer must provide high resolution and sensitivity to detect elements ranging from sodium to uranium with reproducible accuracy, integrating unique features such as poly-capillary optics, a revolving turret, and spectral mapping capabilities, which none other than Gatan currently offers. The procurement is based on a justification and approval citing FAR 6.302-1(a)(2) for other than full and open competition, following thorough market research that identified Gatan as the sole source capable of meeting these stringent technical requirements. The contract is managed under FAR Part 12 simplified acquisition procedures with an estimated delivery and performance period of seven months after order receipt. This one-time procurement includes delivery, installation, calibration, verification, and onsite operator training at Tinker AFB. No specific packaging, preservation, or military standards are prescribed, but the equipment’s sensitive nature implies careful handling and transportation responsibilities fall on the contractor. The contract administration is led by the Air Force Sustainment Center’s contracting office at Tinker AFB, with designated points of contact for technical and contractual oversight. No competing proposals will be evaluated, and no socioeconomic set-asides or options for follow-on services are included. Overall, this acquisition is aimed at sustaining depot-level maintenance and failure analysis for the USAF through a unique, firm fixed-price sole source purchase of a highly specialized analytical instrument from the only qualified vendor.