NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) has issued a Statement of Work for a printer rental project focused on the additive manufacturing of specified block dimensions using proprietary alloy powders. The vendor is responsible for safeguarding intellectual property associated with the powders and design files, with materials to be returned upon request. The project involves supplying 1,000 pounds of GRX-810 powder to the vendor for use on the EOS M400 printer over one month, during which optimal build parameters will be established. The deliverables include the production of mechanical test specimen blanks measuring 3.4” x 0.63” x 0.63” and a witness specimen of 0.5” x 0.5” x 0.5” from the same build. Following this, CAD files for further production will be furnished. This initiative emphasizes the importance of research and development in advanced manufacturing technologies within a government framework, highlighting NASA’s commitment to innovation while ensuring compliance with regulatory protocols surrounding intellectual property and material handling.
The document outlines a recommendation from the NASA Shared Services Center to negotiate directly with EOS Additive Minds for the rental and consultation of an M400 printer, citing a sole source requirement. The estimated cost and delivery date are not provided, but the need for this specific vendor is justified. Key reasons include the use of EOS for producing NASA's GRX-810 samples, emphasizing the necessity to maintain the same machine for ongoing projects to ensure data comparability. Changing the printer could render a previous $100,000 investment ineffective and require rework. The potential impact of choosing another vendor could jeopardize a year's worth of project data and cause significant delays, threatening project success. This recommendation emphasizes the importance of vendor continuity in 3D printing to safeguard previous investments and project integrity.
NASA/NSSC is planning to issue a sole-source contract for a one-month rental of an EOS M400 printer from EOS OF NORTH AMERICA, INC., located in Novi, Michigan, as they are the sole provider for this equipment. The procurement is governed by FAR provisions, specifically FAR Part 12 and FAR Part 13, and will take place at NASA's Glenn Research Center. Organizations interested in participating can submit their capabilities and qualifications in writing by 9 a.m. Central Standard Time on September 18, 2024. The government's decision to pursue full and open competition is discretionary based on responses. Oral communications are not permitted for this notice. Contact for inquiries is Shanna Patterson, Procurement Specialist at NASA. The relevant NAICS Code for this procurement is 532490, indicating a focus on rental and leasing services.