Micro x-ray source for defect detection in metallic AM structures

NASA's Shared Services Center is seeking a micro x-ray source for defect detection in metallic additive manufacturing structures through this small business set-aside solicitation. The procurement requires a highly specialized x-ray source with specific technical parameters, including a voltage range of 40-130kV, current capacity of 10-300A, maximum power of 39W, and a focal spot size not exceeding 10 micrometers. The contractor must manufacture and supply one x-ray source unit, perform factory acceptance testing, and deliver comprehensive technical documentation including operation manuals, interface control drawings, and safety guidelines by April 17, 2026. The government will award the contract using a lowest-price technically acceptable (LPTA) evaluation methodology, meaning the contractor offering the lowest price among technically acceptable proposals will be selected. The deadline for quotation submission was January 20, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. CT, though interested parties should reference the Questions and Answers document updated January 21, 2026 for clarifications regarding voltage flexibility and inclusion of replacement cables and a controller as part of the procurement.

This solicitation is designated as a Total Small Business set-aside, requiring all offerors to be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) and meet small business certification requirements. No incumbent contractor is identified in the available documentation, indicating this represents a new procurement rather than a contract renewal. While a specific contract value is not disclosed in the solicitation materials, the procurement involves a single unit delivery with an estimated completion date of April 17, 2026. The place of performance is Hampton, Virginia 23681, where the x-ray source will ultimately be mounted in a containment box for defect detection in thin-walled additively-manufactured metallic structures. Interested contractors should use NASA LaRC Solicitation ID 80NSSC26922252Q as the reference identifier for all correspondence regarding this opportunity, which falls under NAICS code 334519 (Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing) and PSC 6640 (Laboratory Equipment and Supplies).