NIST - Aluminum Effusion Cell

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking to procure an aluminum effusion cell for molecular beam epitaxy research in its Physical Measurement Lab's Quantitative Nanostructure Characterization Group. The specific requirement is for a single-filament aluminum effusion cell compatible with a Veeco GEN 10 molecular beam epitaxy system, featuring a 60 cc conical pyrolytic boron nitride crucible. Technical specifications include interior water cooling, a 4.5" CF flange, 11.4" in-vacuum length, Type C thermocouple, ultrahigh vacuum construction, and the ability to reach 1350°C operating temperature. NIST is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice to identify potential vendors, with responses due by June 13, 2025. The evaluation will focus on vendor capabilities, manufacturing locations, product specifications, and lead times, with the goal of determining the most appropriate acquisition approach.

The procurement is currently not set aside for any specific business size, though NIST will consider a small business set-aside if at least two qualified small businesses are identified under NAICS code 333242 (Semiconductor Machinery Manufacturing). The contract requires delivery within 18 weeks after order receipt, with F.O.B. Destination terms to NIST in Boulder, CO. Payment will be 100% contingent upon full system acceptance, successful testing, and proper invoicing. The contractor must provide a minimum one-year warranty covering manufacturing defects, excluding crucibles once they are put into service. The equipment will support semiconductor nanostructure research with potential applications in defense, communications, electrical power systems, and medical technologies. While no specific award value is mentioned, the procurement appears to be for a single specialized piece of scientific equipment with precise technical requirements.