7B--Notice of Intent to Sole Source / Sources Sought

In accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 13, Simplified Acquisition Procedures, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) intends to award a purchase order on a sole source basis to MTS Systems Corporation to purchase MTS hardware and software upgrades for an NETL-owned MTS LandMark 370.50 servo-hydraulic fatigue load frame. This package includes an MTS computer/PC, 23” LCD monitor, 793 control software (MTS FlexTest 40 controller upgrade), MTS TestSuite multipurpose elite software, MTS TestSuite advanced low cycle fatigue (ADVLCF) module, software support plan package, and MTS engineer on-site installation and commissioning.

This is considered a sole source to MTS because to the best of the NETL’s knowledge, based on market research conducted, MTS is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and sole source provider of these items. The hardware and software are proprietary to MTS. The control computer and software must be compatible and able to interface with the MTS LandMark 370.50 load frame and controller. The upgraded OEM (MTS) hardware and software are required to ensure the load frame will be 100% operational after upgrade and must be compatible with existing ancillary equipment used during experimental alloys testing. The hardware and software must be integrated between the load frame, sensors, hardware, and software already in use at NETL. MTS is the only vendor that can supply this exact hardware and software. No known potential alternate sources exist which could satisfy NETL’s requirement.

This notice of intent is not a request for quote/proposal. Any interested party that believes it is capable of meeting the NETL requirement described herein may identify themselves and must provide evidence of their capability to fulfill the requirement being requested by 4:00 PM EDT on August 20, 2022. Responses must be submitted in writing to the purchasing agent, Lora Stumpf, via email at stumpf@netl.doe.gov no later than the time and date noted above. Telephone responses and requests will not be received.

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