Portable Small Article Monitor for Shipboard Use

The Department of Energy's Naval Nuclear Laboratory is soliciting proposals for a Portable Small Article Monitor (PSAM) designed to replace manual frisking stations inside nuclear vessels undergoing maintenance at US Navy shipyards. The device must feature a modular design that is significantly smaller and lighter than commercially available Small Article Monitors, with a maximum weight of 1200 lbs and external dimensions not exceeding 21.5 x 24 x 24 inches. The PSAM must detect 450 picocuries or less of Co-60 within 120 seconds, include isotopic analysis capability to identify detected radionuclides, and feature a simple user interface with no wireless communications. Proposers must submit a quad chart, five-page narrative, required procurement documents (P-301 and P-305 forms), and a company survey by the deadline of February 27, 2026. Evaluation will focus on technical merit, design feasibility, and the contractor's ability to execute the multi-phase development program including design reviews, functional testing, and factory acceptance testing.

This solicitation carries no set-aside designation and is open to all qualified contractors in the research and development sector. The government intends to contract for the design and construction of one PSAM based on the selected proposal, with the final product to be delivered to Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC's Naval Reactors Facility in Scoville, Idaho. Specific budget information has not been disclosed in the solicitation notice. The project involves multiple phases beginning with a kickoff meeting and progressing through preliminary design reviews, final design packages, functional testing with approved radioactive sources, and a factory acceptance test. Contractors must provide comprehensive documentation including user manuals, calibration procedures, a data book, and quality assurance certifications demonstrating compliance with ANSI N323D-2002 standards for radiation protection instrumentation.