Powder Handling System

The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), operated by UT-Battelle, is procuring a specialized Powder Handling System to support a new metal powder atomization facility in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The solicitation seeks a qualified contractor to design, fabricate, and integrate a comprehensive metal powder handling system that includes intermediate bulk containers, sieving capabilities down to 10 microns, decanting, blending, and packaging processes, all operating within an inert argon atmosphere to ensure safety when handling potentially flammable metal powders including hafnium, titanium, nickel, niobium, steel, and zirconium. The contract requires collaborative work with ORNL staff to refine conceptual designs, develop detailed engineering plans, and provide installation support with comprehensive safety controls per NFPA standards. Proposals are evaluated using a best-value tradeoff methodology with technical factors weighted more heavily than cost, focusing on understanding of technical requirements, technical capability, relevant experience with material handling systems for flammable metal powders, and past performance. The proposal submission deadline is August 27, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST, with the performance period extending through February 28, 2026.

This procurement is not designated as a set-aside for small businesses and is classified under NAICS code 332117 for Powder Metallurgy Part Manufacturing. The contract structure is a firm fixed-price subcontract with milestone-based payments tied to design completion stages (25%, 50%, 100%) and specific unit acquisitions including Sieve, Decanting, Blending, and Packaging Units, with final payment contingent upon full system installation and acceptance. The timeline ranges from 2-22 weeks after receipt of order, with all deliverables required to be manufactured by United States citizens. Performance will take place at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where the contractor will work directly with ORNL staff to make the post-atomization powder handling system operational. Payment terms are Net 30 days with electronic funds transfer preferred, and the contract includes comprehensive federal flowdown clauses covering cybersecurity, export controls, labor standards, and other regulatory compliance requirements.