Upgrade of the Cold Neutron Imaging Instrument, Phase Grating Roll Alignment System

The National Institute of Standards and Technology seeks three high-precision rotation stages with supporting control hardware and software for upgrading a cold neutron imaging interferometer, with quotations due June 23, 2026. This is a 100% small business set-aside under FAR Part 12 (commercial products and services).

Place of performance is Gaithersburg, Maryland. The rotation stages must achieve angular position resolution of 0.00001 degrees or better, support a clear aperture of at least 80 mm diameter, weigh under 1 kg, rotate a full 360 degrees, and maintain resolution across beam separations ranging from 1 mm to 300 mm for two gratings and up to 5 meters for a third. The stages must demonstrate zero backlash, powered-off position holding, and rotation speed exceeding 3 degrees per second. The procurement includes three sets of 10-meter cables, motion sensors and control hardware, motion control software (SDK-based in C/C++/C# or .NET), and an optional hand control unit. Delivery is due December 31, 2026. NAICS 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with a 1,000-employee small business size standard applies. Pre-quote inquiries are due within 5 calendar days of solicitation issuance. Quotations must remain valid for 90 days from the due date. Offerors must submit three volumes: technical quotation demonstrating compliance with minimum requirements, firm-fixed-price quotation with all costs identified, and terms and conditions acceptance. Award goes to the lowest priced, technically acceptable offeror. No prototypes, demonstration models, used, or refurbished instruments are acceptable. Active SAM.gov registration is required at quotation submission through final payment. Payment is 100% upon installation and acceptance; the Government conducts performance testing within 15 days of receipt, with title transfer upon acceptance.