Open federal opportunities

48--VALVE,SAFETY RELIEF

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA MARITIME.DLA MARITIME COLUMBUS.DLA WEAPONS SUPPORT · Response deadline: Mon, 02 Nov 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), through its Maritime Weapons Support operation in Columbus, is procuring a valve classified as "Safety Relief" under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) 48, which covers valves. Safety relief valves are pressure-release devices critical for protecting systems from over-pressurization in maritime, industrial, and weapons-related applications. These components are essential for maintaining operational safety aboard naval vessels and within weapon systems support infrastructure.

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation, meaning the notice simultaneously announces the government's intent solicits offers from eligible contractors. DLA Maritime manages supply chain operations supporting Navy and Marine Corps fleets, so this valve likely supports shipboard mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic systems where pressure regulation failures could create serious hazards.

Key facts

Who can bid

This opportunity is reserved exclusively for small businesses under NAICS 332911 (Industrial Valve Manufacturing). To qualify, your business must meet SBA size standards for this code—currently 1,000 employees for valve manufacturing enterprises. You must be registered in SAM.gov, have an active account, and maintain small business status representation in your profile.

DLA's total small business set-aside means no large business prime contractors may bid, and no subcontracting plans are required. However, if you're a non-manufacturer, you may need to comply with the non-manufacturer rule, requiring that the valve itself be produced by another small business. Verification of small business status through SAM and possible SBA 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB certifications could strengthen your position if the solicitation includes additional evaluations, though only standard small business status is mandated by the set-aside type listed.

How to put together a competitive bid

For DLA supply solicitations, competitiveness depends heavily on past performance data, pricing transparency, and technical compliance. Begin by reviewing DLA's Historical Pricing database and Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) resources for comparable valve sales. DLA Aviation, Maritime, and Land supply chains typically require ISO 9001 quality management systems; maritime applications may demand additional certifications like ABS or MIL-STD compliance.

Since this involves safety-critical equipment, expect rigorous quality requirements and source inspection provisions. Obtain the provisioned item description from the solicitation to identify exact material specifications, pressure ratings, connection types, and applicable military or commercial standards (potentially MIL-PRF, MIL-DTL, or ASME/ANSI). DLA often uses its Best Value Tradeoff or Lowest Price Technically Acceptable methodologies—verify which applies.

Prepare your RPQ (Request for Quotation) response through DLA's Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) if specified, or through SAM.gov as directed. Include accurate delivery lead times; DLA measures supplier reliability rigorously. Consider DLA's Continuous Customer Support and Supplier Information Management Systems for post-award requirements.

Next steps

Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE7MC27T1041. The complete notice will contain item specifications, quantity, packaging requirements, inspection criteria, and exact submission procedures. Note the response deadline of November 2, 2026—DLA typically enforces firm cutoff times. Register or verify your SAM.gov account immediately if not current, as processing delays can disqualify otherwise eligible bidders.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →