500-kip Compression Testing Frame with Laser Extensometer for NIST

Notice ID Number 1333ND-26-01127 Title: Sources Sought Notice for an 500-kip Compression Testing Frame Department of Commerce -NIST Purchase Request Number: NB731080-26-01227 The purpose of this sources sought notice is to conduct market research and identify potential sources of commercial products/services that satisfy the Government’s anticipated needs. NIST encourages responses from all capable sources, including small businesses, to inform acquisition strategy and promote competition. NAICS Code: 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing BACKGROUND The Materials and Structural Systems Division (MSSD), within the Engineering Laboratory at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), serves as a world-class resource for developing and promoting science-based tools—including measurements, data, models, protocols, and reference standards—to advance the global competitiveness of U.S. industry through innovations in building materials and construction technology, while enhancing the safety, security, and sustainability of the Nation's buildings and physical infrastructure. To support these mission objectives, MSSD requires a commercially available 500-kip automatic compression testing system with a fully integrated laser extensometer for conducting concrete materials testing. The system must be capable of performing compression, flexural, splitting tensile, and modulus of elasticity/Poisson's ratio testing in accordance with applicable ASTM standards. Integration of the laser extensometer with the testing machine's controls and data acquisition system is a minimum technical requirement to ensure accurate measurements, seamless system operation, and reliable data collection. Accordingly, the contractor shall furnish and deliver one (1) commercially available 500-kip automatic compression testing system equipped with a fully integrated laser extensometer and all associated hardware, software, and accessories necessary to perform the required testing in accordance with the Requirements Document. Specifications: The respondent shall furnish and deliver one (1) commercially available 500-kip automatic compression testing system equipped with a fully integrated laser extensometer and all associated hardware, software, and accessories necessary to perform the required testing in accordance with the Requirements Document, and shall be delivered to the NIST Gaithersburg campus. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS The respondent shall provide a system/product that meets all technical specifications identified below. All items must be new.  The use of “gray market” components are not authorized for sale in the U.S. by the Contractor is not acceptable.    All line items shall be shipped in the original manufacturer’s packaging and include all original documentation and software, when applicable. LINE ITEM 0001: DESCRIPTION: 500 Kip Automatic Compression Testing Machine QUANTITY: 1 EACH The machine must have a VFD Control system and must be able to connect to the standard 115 VAC -15A/20A circuit. All necessary platen fixtures to perform Compression (2”x2” cubes, 3”x6” cores/cylinders, 4”x8” cylinders, 6”x12” cylinders), Flexural, Modulus of Elasticity/Poisson's Ratio (MP) (4”x8” cylinders), Tensile Splitting – 4”x8” and 6”x12” cylinders. Platen Hardness of 60 HRC is required. Due to space availability within the lab, the compression machine must meet the following dimensions and weight (for handling):   Overall Width:  less than or equal 36”,                                 Overall Depth:  less than or equal 24”,                                 Overall Height: less than or equal 72”.                                 Weight less than 1,750 lbs.  The machine needs to have displacement control option and a minimum piston stroke of 2”.  Vertical Opening: minimum 18 in; Horizontal opening: minimum 12”; Minimum Lower Platen Dimension 10” x 14”. The compression testing machine shall be warranted for a minimum of 12 months from installation. LINE ITEM 0002: DESCRIPTION: LASER EXTENSOMETER QUANTITY: 1 EACH Technology:  Non-contact, high-speed laser-based optical extensometer using a conventional entocentric lens system. Optics Package:  Specifically configured for a 350 mm Field of View (FOV) to accommodate large spe