Equipment and Software for Digital Twin Project

The University of Texas at Austin is seeking qualified vendors to provide equipment and software for a Digital Twin Project at the Nuclear Engineering and Teaching Lab (NETL). The quote request (QR 721-25062) targets a comprehensive system for collecting sensor data, performing computations, and operating a control rod for the TRIGA reactor. The procurement aims to improve power output and isotope tracking through a digital twin simulation capable of modeling reactor operations in faster-than-real-time. The required system must have a compact form factor (less than 4' x 2' x 2'), modular design, and include specific components such as a multimeter, source measurement units, thermocouple inputs, oscilloscope channels, and various communication modules. Vendors must submit proposals electronically through the Bonfire digital portal by May 14, 2025, at 2:30 PM CDT, with a pre-proposal conference scheduled for April 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The university will evaluate responses based on best value criteria, considering purchase price, vendor reputation, service quality, and total long-term costs. The procurement includes three sets of equipment, with one complete set of spares, and requires a minimum 12-month warranty with options for extended coverage up to 10 years.

The contract opportunity includes a 25% Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) subcontracting goal, indicating a preference for diverse vendor participation. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the project requires vendors capable of providing advanced technical solutions for nuclear engineering research applications. Vendors must be prepared to offer comprehensive support, including calibration services, preventative maintenance documentation, and software update support. The procurement supports integration with existing nuclear research infrastructure, specifically the TRIGA reactor at the University of Texas at Austin. Although a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the complex technical requirements and multiple equipment sets suggest a significant investment in advanced research technology. The university anticipates a final review and intent to award in June 2025, with vendors expected to demonstrate expertise in nuclear engineering equipment, data acquisition systems, and digital twin simulation technologies.