PAFI Material Compatibility Testing
ID: PAFI-2025Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

TRANSPORTATION, DEPARTMENT OFFEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION692M15 ACQUISITION & GRANTS, AAQ600ATLANTIC CITY, NJ, 08405, USA

NAICS

Testing Laboratories and Services (541380)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/ad7d16b3098545d1933aa93a7cc9c969/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking qualified contractors to provide testing services for materials compatibility as part of the Piston Aviation Fuels Initiative (PAFI). The primary objective is to evaluate the compatibility of an unleaded candidate fuel with existing aviation materials, ensuring safety and compliance with aviation standards as the industry transitions away from leaded 100LL gasoline. This initiative is crucial for maintaining material integrity and safety in general aviation while exploring environmentally friendly fuel options. Interested vendors must submit their statements of interest and capabilities by April 23, 2025, to Karen Thorngren at karen.c.thorngren@faa.gov, with a focus on demonstrating relevant experience and technical capabilities as outlined in the Draft Statement of Work and PAFI Materials Test Plan.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Karen Thorngren
    (609) 485-4730
    Karen.C.Thorngren@faa.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Draft SOW.pdf
    The document outlines the Statement of Work (SOW) for the Piston Aviation Fuels Initiative (PAFI) Material Compatibility Testing led by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This initiative aims to transition piston-engine aircraft to unleaded aviation fuels, replacing the leaded 100LL gasoline, in alignment with the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act. The scope includes extensive materials testing to evaluate compatibility with an unleaded candidate fuel, ensuring safety and compliance with aviation standards. Key components of the SOW include program management practices, safety protocols for handling fuels, detailed test procedures for various materials (hoses, bladder, sealants, etc.), and comprehensive reporting requirements. The contractor is tasked with conducting relevant tests while adhering to FAA guidelines and ensuring non-disclosure of proprietary information. Furthermore, all testing results and related data are the FAA's property. The document emphasizes collaborative participation between the contractor and the FAA, ensuring transparency throughout the testing phases and compliance with health and safety regulations. The overarching goal is to facilitate a safe transition to lead-free aviation fuels by 2030, significantly impacting environmental and aviation safety standards.
    PAFI-MTP-002.pdf
    The PAFI Materials Compatibility Test Plan (PAFI-MTP-002) outlines the requirements and procedures for conducting comparative materials compatibility testing for the FAA Piston Aviation Fuels Initiative (PAFI). The plan aims to evaluate alternative unleaded aviation fuels and ensure their compatibility with existing aviation materials currently using 100LL aviation gasoline, as specified in ASTM D-910. Key objectives include assessing changes in tensile, elongation, volume swell, and surface degradation of hoses, bladders, sealants, elastomers, paint systems, fabrics, and distribution hoses following fuel exposure. The document emphasizes adherence to established military, FAA, SAE, and ASTM standards for testing, specifying that all results are to be validated and that testing must be witnessed by FAA representatives. The plan consists of detailed tasks, including sample preparation, test conditions, and evaluation criteria, intended to generate data necessary for FAA fleet authorizations. The testing is not mandatory but presents guidance for aviation stakeholders considering the introduction of new fuel formulations. This comprehensive approach highlights the FAA's commitment to maintaining material integrity and safety standards in general aviation while exploring greener fuel options.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    PAFI Material Compatibility Testing
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