53--NUT,SELF-LOCKING,BARRE
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Wed, 04 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
DLA Aviation Richmond is seeking a supplier for self-locking bar nuts, a type of specialty fastener used in aerospace and defense applications. Self-locking nuts incorporate a locking feature—typically a nylon insert, deformed threads, or a prevailing torque design—to resist loosening under vibration, making them essential for aircraft maintenance and assembly where fastener failure could have critical consequences.
This procurement falls under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) 53, which covers hardware and abrasives. The specific item description is limited in the available metadata; see the solicitation for complete technical specifications including thread size, material grade, plating requirements, torque specifications, and applicable military or aerospace standards (such as MIL-DTL-, NAS, or MS specifications).
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation — Richmond |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE4A627T7102 |
| NAICS | 332722 |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside — Total |
| Response deadline | November 4, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata; see the solicitation |
Who can bid
This opportunity is restricted to small businesses under the total small business set-aside program. To qualify, your business must:
Meet the NAICS 332722 size standard (Bolt, Nut, Screw, Rivet, and Washer Manufacturing). The Small Business Administration typically sets this at 500 employees; verify the current threshold at SBA.gov.
Be registered in SAM.gov with active small business certifications.
Have or obtain any required quality system certifications common to aerospace hardware suppliers, such as AS9100 or ISO 9001, if specified in the solicitation.
DLA Aviation is the primary procurement arm for military aircraft parts. Vendors without prior DLA experience can compete, but familiarity with defense supply chain requirements—including MIL-STD-129 labeling, Wide Area WorkFlow (WAWF) invoicing, and DFARS clauses—is advantageous.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical requirements. Self-locking aerospace nuts must meet stringent performance criteria. Obtain the full specification from the solicitation and confirm your manufacturing or sourcing capability matches exactly. DLA Aviation often requires first-article inspection or source inspection; factor these costs and lead times into your pricing.
Verify your supply chain. Bar nuts in this category may require specific raw materials (e.g., alloy steel, corrosion-resistant steel, or titanium) and heat treatment processes. Confirm material availability and any DFARS specialty metal restrictions for defense applications.
Price strategically. DLA awards frequently go to lowest price technically acceptable (LPTA) proposals. Research historical pricing through GSA Advantage or DLA's Electronic Document Access system for comparable NSNs. Include all landed costs: packaging, shipping to the specified destination, and any source inspection fees.
Demonstrate past performance. Even as a new DLA vendor, highlight relevant commercial aerospace or military fastener supply experience. Reference contracts with OEMs, airlines, or other defense agencies.
Submit completely. Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notices typically require proposal submission through SAM.gov or DLA's specified electronic system by the deadline with no exceptions.
Next steps
Access the full solicitation on SAM.gov using number SPE4A627T7102 to review complete specifications, clauses, and delivery requirements.
Confirm the response deadline of November 4, 2026 and identify the exact submission method and any required samples or technical data.
Submit questions through the solicitation's designated contact if any technical requirements are unclear.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →