1K Helium-4 sorption cooler

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is soliciting quotations for three 1K helium-4 sorption coolers intended for measuring superconducting-nanowire single photon detectors. This unrestricted Request for Quotation (RFQ) is being conducted under Simplified Acquisition Procedures with a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) evaluation methodology. Vendors must electronically submit their quotations to deionne.jones@nist.gov by March 21, 2025, and include technical capability documentation, firm fixed pricing, and required representations and certifications. The evaluation will assess two primary factors: technical capability (rated as acceptable/unacceptable) and price reasonableness. Vendors must demonstrate the ability to meet detailed technical specifications, including providing a cooler capable of delivering at least 250mW of cooling at 1K for 24 hours, with a closed-cycle system reusable without additional cryogens.

The contract will be performed at NIST's Boulder, Colorado facility, with a required delivery timeline of eight weeks after receipt of order. The solicitation falls under NAICS category 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with a small business size standard of 1,000 employees. Specific technical requirements include a cooler with a diameter smaller than 100mm, compatible with three-phase power at 200V, 50A, and utility connections for cooling water. The government will conduct acceptance testing for up to 21 business days, and vendor installation may require up to two weeks with on-site technician support for setup and start-up services. Vendors must maintain an active System for Award Management (SAM) registration and complete all necessary representations, including disclosures about telecommunications equipment and place of manufacture.