50K Cryocooler

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking a 50K Cryogen-Free Cryocooler through solicitation NB672060-25-02221, a Request for Quotation conducted under Simplified Acquisition Procedures. This specialized equipment will be used by NIST's Superconductive Electronics Group for testing high temperature superconducting devices in the Josephson Voltage Standard project, which is funded by Air Force Metrology and Calibration. The cryocooler must meet stringent technical requirements including a base temperature of 50K with temperature fluctuations not exceeding 150 mK, continuous temperature variability between 50K and 100K, and at least 2W cooling power at 50K. Additional specifications require the unit to be cryogen-free, weigh under 10 pounds, operate on 120 VAC/60 Hz power, include a USB-interfaceable temperature controller, and have a Mean Time Before Failure of at least 100,000 hours. NIST will evaluate quotations using a lowest price technically acceptable approach, focusing on technical capability and price reasonableness, with quotations due by August 29, 2025.

This procurement is conducted on an unrestricted basis with no set-aside designations, making it open to all qualified vendors under NAICS code 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with a size standard of 1000 employees. The solicitation requires one unit of the 50K Cryocooler, which must be new equipment as used, reconditioned, or refurbished items will not be accepted. The successful contractor will be required to deliver the equipment to NIST's Boulder, Colorado facility within an expected timeframe of five months after order receipt. The contract must include a comprehensive two-year warranty covering both labor and parts, with the potential for an additional maintenance plan that may require separate fees. Vendors must maintain active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) and complete all required representations and certifications as part of their quotation submission.