Opportunity
SAM #W911QY-26-R-Tropical_Wind_Tunnels
Market Research for Modernization of Wind Tunnel Fan Motor and Bypass Fan System at Natick Soldier Systems Center
Buyer
AMC ACC Natick
Posted
July 31, 2026
Respond By
August 05, 2026
Identifier
W911QY-26-R-Tropical_Wind_Tunnels
NAICS
333413, 333612, 541330, 238290, 541690
This opportunity seeks industry input for the modernization of the Tropical Wind Tunnel Wind Fan Motor and Bypass Fan System at the Natick Soldier Systems Center, managed by the U.S. Army DEVCOM Soldier Center. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Soldier Center - Department of the Army - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named in the notice - Products/Services Requested: - Modernization of wind tunnel fan motor and bypass fan system - Engineering analysis, electrical and mechanical design - Motor sizing and fan performance analysis - Replacement with direct-drive or gearbox system - Integration of variable frequency drives (VFDs) - Removal of old equipment and installation of new systems - Testing, commissioning, as-built documentation, preventive maintenance, and operator training - Unique/Notable Requirements: - System must maintain approximately 40 MPH wind speed, with an alternate design for 65 MPH - Focus on improved reliability, maintainability, efficiency, and lifecycle cost - Contractors must have experience with industrial fan systems, wind tunnels, rotating equipment, industrial controls, VFDs, balancing, and commissioning - Work must comply with Army installation access, EM 385-1-1, OSHA, NFPA, Lockout/Tagout, confined space, and environmental regulations - No specific products, part numbers, or purchase quantities are listed
Description
Sources Sought Notice Department of the Army U.S. Army DEVCOM Soldier Center
Tropical Wind Tunnel Wind Fan and Bypass Fan System Modernization THIS IS NOT A SOLICITATION OR REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Notice Type
Sources Sought Notice
PSC
H342 – Quality Control, Test, Inspection, and Technical Representative Services-Machinery and Equipment
NAICS
333413 – Industrial and Commercial Fan and Blower and Air Purification Equipment Manufacturing
1. Introduction
The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Soldier Center is conducting market research in accordance with FAR Part 10 to identify qualified businesses capable of engineering, designing, manufacturing, integrating, removing, installing, testing, commissioning, and training personnel on a modernized Tropical Wind Tunnel Wind Fan Motor and Bypass Fan System at Building 2, Natick Soldier Systems Center. This notice is for market research only and is not a solicitation.
2. Purpose
Determine industry capability, assess small business participation, and support acquisition planning.
3. Project Description
The project includes engineering analysis of the existing wind tunnel and bypass fan systems, evaluation of reusable components, modernization of motors and drives, VFD integration, alignment, balancing, testing, commissioning, preventive maintenance documentation, and operator training.
4. Anticipated Scope
Engineering evaluation; electrical and mechanical design; motor sizing; fan performance analysis; direct-drive or gearbox replacement; VFD integration; removal and installation; testing; commissioning; as-built drawings; training.
5. Desired Performance
Maintain approximately 40 MPH wind speed with an alternate design capable of approximately 65 MPH while improving reliability, maintainability, efficiency, and lifecycle cost.
6. Contractor Capabilities
Experience with industrial fan systems, wind tunnels, rotating equipment, industrial controls, VFDs, balancing, commissioning, and DoD or industrial research facilities.
7. Period of Performance
Anticipated completion no later than 31 December 2026.
8. Security/Safety
Capability to comply with Army installation access, EM 385-1-1, OSHA, NFPA, Lockout/Tagout, confined space, and applicable environmental requirements.
9. Requested Information
Provide company information, UEI, CAGE, socioeconomic status, capability statement (15 pages max), relevant projects, engineering capabilities, manufacturing facilities, quality certifications, and points of contact.
10. Questions for Industry
Comment on the suitability of NAICS 333413 and PSC H342, recommended technical approach, manufacturing lead times, and commercial technologies.
11. Disclaimer
Issued solely for market research under FAR Part 10. No contract will be awarded from this notice and no costs incurred in responding will be reimbursed.