Development and Qualification of Domestically Sintered Neodymium Iron Boron (NdFeB) Magnets for Weapons Platforms

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. OBJECTIVE: The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) strives to develop domestic sources for rare earth permanent magnets a defense-essential technology that supports fielded weapon systems and system component assemblies to reinforce domestic manufacturing capability and to mitigate risks associated with single, foreign sources. Advanced technology demonstrations for affordability and advanced industrial practices must demonstrate the combination of improved discrete-magnet manufacturing of various grades. Proposed efforts funded under this topic must result in unit cost reduction, improved lifecycle and performance and qualification. Further, proposed efforts must be judged to be at a Technology Readiness Level 6 or higher -- system/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment to receive funding consideration. TRL 3. (Analytical and Experimental Critical Function and/or Characteristic Proof of Concept) TRL 6. (System/Subsystem Model or Prototype Demonstration in a Relevant Environment) DESCRIPTION: Many defense technologies contain rare earth permanent magnets including motors, missiles, and other weapons systems platforms; but domestic sources remain scarce, leaving the Defense supply chain vulnerable to foreign sourcing. Developing and qualifying economically viable domestic sources for rare earth magnets could help create a competitive and secure domestic supply chain with improved costs and performance. DLA R&D is looking for domestic production processes that can produce a qualified source of NdFeB magnets for use in defense platforms. The production process should be able to use domesticlally produced virgin or recycled Neodymium-Praesomium(NdPr) powder as feedstock that can be sintered to meet Department of Defense magnet specifications for several different grades. DLA R&D tasks include demonstrating the production process, fabricating samples, and qualifying through an identified DoD Program of Record. PROJECT DURATION and COST: PHASE I: NTE 12 Months $250K PHASE II: NTE 24 Months $1.6M PHASE I: Phase I The objective is to generate a US manufactured source of NdFeB magnets that meets or exceeds the current military specifications using all available historical and updated research and technologies; and design a cost effective manufacturing and qualification process adhering to all regulatory and manufacturing standards which can use domestic NdPr powder as a feedstock to meet the current supply demands to the military. PHASE II: The Phase II proposal is optional for the Phase I awardee. DLA's expectation in Phase II is to complete the qualification process. Phase II selections are based on Phase I performance, Small Business innovation and engineering capability and the availability of appropriate requirements. PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase III is any proposal that Derives From , Extends or Completes a transition from a Phase I or II project. Phase III proposals will be accepted after the completion of Phase I and or Phase II projects. There is no specific funding associated with Phase III, except Phase III is not allowed to use SBIR/STTR coded funding. Any other type of funding is allowed. Phase III proposal Submission. Phase III proposals are emailed directly to DLA SBIR2@dla.mil. The PMO team will set up evaluations and coordinate the funding and contracting actions depending on the outcome of the evaluations. A Phase III proposal should follow the same format as Phase II for the content, and format. There are, however, no limitations to the amount of funding requested, or the period of performance. All other guidelines apply. COMMERCIALIZATION: The SBM will pursue commercialization of the various technologies and processes developed in prior phases through participation in future DLA procurement actions on items identified but not limited to this BAA. REFERENCES: 1. https://www.dodmantech.com/ 2. 2015 Strategic and Critical Materials Report on Stockpile Requirements 3. National Defense Authorization Act For Fiscal Year 2014 KEYWORDS: NdFeB Magnets