Custom UHV Flow Cryostats

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking to procure three custom Ultra-High Vacuum (UHV) flow cryostats through Request for Quotation NB6880002501755. These specialized cryostats must be compatible with ColdEdge Stinger liquid-cryogen-free recirculating helium gas closed-cycle cryocooler apparatus and feature a central cold finger capable of cooling to base temperature with at least 500 mW of cooling power at 4K, plus an additional ring-shaped radiation shield surface with 20W cooling power at 40K. The cryostats must be constructed for ultra-high-vacuum operation on a 2.75" ConFlat flange with all in-vacuum components limited to a maximum outer diameter of 1.500". The government will use a best value evaluation approach, considering both technical capability and price, with the award going to the lowest technically acceptable quotation. Quotations must be submitted electronically to Travis Zoellner at travis.zoellner@nist.gov by August 13, 2025.

This opportunity is designated as a 100% Total Small Business Set-Aside under NAICS code 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with a size standard of 1,000 employees. No incumbent contractors or current service providers are identified in the solicitation materials. While no specific contract value or budget range is disclosed, the government intends to award a firm fixed price purchase order with delivery terms of FOB Destination and Net 30 payment terms. The equipment will be delivered to NIST's Boulder, Colorado facility at 80305, and the government expects to complete acceptance within 7 days of receipt. Vendors must maintain active System for Award Management (SAM) registration and complete all required representations and certifications to be eligible for award consideration.