Helium Leak Detector

The Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is procuring a single helium leak detector to support the Fundamental Thermodynamics group's Photonic Thermometry project. The detector must meet stringent technical specifications including a minimum detectable leak rate of less than 5 x 10^-12, NW-25 test port flange, 115 VAC power, digital display, portability under 100 pounds, and compatibility with dry lubricated backing pumps. The equipment must be new and include a 10-foot probe sniffer with leak rate display capabilities in multiple units. Evaluation will prioritize technical capability and relevant experience over price, focusing on proven commercial solutions that meet all minimum requirements. Electronic quotations must be submitted to Junee Johnson and Forest Crumpler by August 15, 2025 at 12:00 PM EDT, structured in four volumes covering technical specifications, relevant experience, pricing, and terms and conditions.

This procurement is designated as a Total Small Business set-aside under NAICS code 335932 with a size standard of 1,000 employees. The contract includes delivery within 12 weeks FOB Destination to NIST's Gaithersburg, Maryland facility at 20899, with a 7-business-day onsite inspection and acceptance period. The contractor must provide a minimum one-year warranty and will receive 100% payment after installation and acceptance. NIST will conduct performance tests including helium leak testing and verification against calibrated leak standards. This procurement supports a multi-year, multi-million dollar project funded by NIST-on-a-Chip (NOAC) and the Air Force, aimed at developing next-generation chip-scale photonic temperature metrology capabilities.