Notice Of Intent to sole source: Wika thermometry bridge for direct drop in replacement for gauge block interferometer

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) intends to negotiate on a sole source basis, under the authority of 41 USC 3304(a)(1); FAR 13.106-1(b)., with HEXAGON METROLOGY LTD, METROLOGY HOUSE, HALESFIELD 13, TELFORD TF74PL for the procurement of a Wika thermometry bridge.  

The sole source justification is based on the following:

The NIST Dimensional Metrology Group (DMG) calibrates gauge blocks as part of our charge to provide critical measurement to the whole of U.S. industry and research and academic organizations. We employ a Hexagon-NPL gauge block interferometer to perform these calibrations. This system has a built-in temperature system, which is an integrated part of our gauge block interferometer, is not fully functional.

Because this is a unique gauge block measuring system, employed, almost exclusively, by national measurement institutes, like NIST, and primary standards laboratories for our military, there is only one manufacturer who manufactures this system (HEXAGON METROLOGY LTD).  They are the sole qualified source to provide the necessary bridge and custom hardware to replace our existing failed bridge. 

During Market Research Hexagon Metrology Ltd was identified as the only manufacturer that can provide the direct replacement bridge and the proprietary custom hardware for 100% compatible with the existing equipment.

The resulting purchase order will be a Firm Fixed Price purchase order. The NAICS Code is 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing with a size standard of 1,000 employees.

No solicitation package will be issued. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, interested parties who regard themselves as capable of fulfilling these requirements are invited to submit responses to the Government for consideration. Responses received by 11:00 pm AM EDT July 26, 2024, will be considered by the Government. Responses must be submitted via email to the Government point of contacts listed in the notice.  

A determination by the Government not to compete the proposed acquisition based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.