Notice of Intent to Sole Source_FAME Analzyers

The Air Force Petroleum Agency (AFPET/PTPL) urgently requires three Fatty-Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) Analyzers to test jet fuel according to ASTM D7797. This standard mandates a unique analysis method using Flow Analysis by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FA-FTIR) with partial least squares (PLS-1) data processing. Extensive market research identified the FIJI FAME instrument from Seta Analytics as the only product capable of meeting this requirement directly. Lazar Scientific, Inc. is the exclusive U.S. distributor for Seta Analytics, making them the sole available vendor. Although an alternative, the eralytics ERAJET FAME, was evaluated, it only correlates to ASTM D7797, failing to meet the strict technical standards. The contracting officer determined that only a single source is reasonably available for this acquisition. To prevent future single-source awards, the Government plans to continuously monitor the market for competitive solutions and utilize public notifications to maximize competition.

The Statement of Work outlines the requirement for three (3) Fatty-Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) Analyzers for the Aerospace Fuels Laboratories at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Vandenberg Space Force Base, and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. These analyzers are crucial for performing specification testing on Jet Fuel, ensuring quality surveillance and analytical support for warfighter and space launch operations. The units must be durable, robust, and conform to ASTM D7797-23, capable of automatic analysis with specific electrical, size, weight, and operational requirements. Key technical specifications include a detection range of 10 mg/kg to 150 mg/kg in Aviation Turbine Fuels, compatibility with various jet fuels, and the ability to operate in defined environmental conditions. The contract also requires on-site installation, verification, training for AFPET personnel, technical support, electronic manuals, and a minimum one-year warranty. All products must originate from a qualifying country in accordance with DFARS 225.872, with delivery and installation expected within 12 weeks of contract award to the specified locations. Payment will be made upon proper invoice submission and acceptance via Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF), and commercial vehicle delivery procedures, including inspections, must be followed.

The United States Air Force, AFLCMC/PZIBB, intends to award a sole-source, Firm-Fixed-Price contract to Lazar Scientific, Inc. for the acquisition of three Fatty-Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) Analyzers. These analyzers are required for the Air Force’s Aerospace Fuels Laboratories at Wright-Patterson AFB, Vandenberg Space Force Base, and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station to perform specification testing on Jet Fuel (ASTM D1655). Lazar Scientific, Inc. has been identified as the only known business capable of meeting the Government’s specifications for this requirement. This action is justified under RFO 6.103-1 and 12.102(a). The procurement falls under NAICS code 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) and PSC 6640 (Laboratory Equipment and Supplies). While this is not a request for competitive quotations, responsible sources may submit capability statements or exceptions by April 20, 2026, at 12:00 pm EDT to curtis.thomas.4@us.af.mil. All prospective awardees must be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM) at https://www.sam.gov. The notice emphasizes specific email subject line requirements and acceptable attachment formats.