34--MACHINING TANK HEMISPHERES

NASA/JSC has a requirement for post machining of twelve 48 tank hemispheres. These hemispheres make up the propellant tanks for the Morpheus vehicle, which supports the Advanced Exploration Systems Program. These hemispheres for the propellant tanks are critical components to the vehicle and its qualification testing. NASA/JSC intends to purchase the items from Granite State Manufacturing (GSM). GSM developed a customized fixture in approximately 2 months to machine the jagged hemispheres into the required complex dimensions. It would severely impact the schedule for the government to have another manufacturer develop the tooling, processes, and for NASA to certify another process to produce similar finished products, and then to perform additional qualification testing. Additionally, NASA/JSC requires that these twelve tank hemispheres be similar to the initial ten hemispheres originally machined. This factor is important, as it is integral to the assembly, function and performance of the final assembled tanks. It is critical for all these tank hemispheres to follow the same manufacturing process and be made on the same tooling, as any changes can add variability to the finished product and potentially result in the need for additional repairs in the future. The Government intends to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort in writing to Rochelle Overstreet not later than 4:30 p.m. local time on December 17, 2012. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed effort on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice. All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the agency. NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at http://prod.nais.nasa.gov/pub/pub_library/Omb.html .