Differential Climate Chamber
ID: RFQ_2024022454Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OFENERGY, DEPARTMENT OFALLIANCE SUSTAINABLE ENRGY-DOECONTRGolden, CO, 80402, USA

NAICS

Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing (334519)

PSC

MISCELLANEOUS MACHINE TOOLS (3419)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/234356080a18417a875b1308e6ce032b/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is seeking quotes for a new Differential Climate Chamber through Request for Quote (RFQ) No. 2024022454, aimed at enhancing research capabilities for evaluating the durability and resilience of advanced building envelope technologies. The upgraded chamber is essential to address the limitations of existing equipment, which has been overutilized and is no longer adequate for current research demands, particularly for innovative materials such as vacuum insulating glass and carbon-negative components. Interested vendors must submit comprehensive offers by January 9, 2025, including technical specifications and compliance with federal regulations, with the procurement process following a Lowest Price, Technically Acceptable selection method. For further inquiries, potential bidders can contact Janelle DiGregorio at Janelle.DiGregorio@nrel.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Janelle DiGregorio
    Janelle.DiGregorio@nrel.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Amendment 1 to RFQ No. 2024022454.pdf
    This document is an amendment to the solicitation No. RFQ 2024022454, issued on December 13, 2024, by Janelle DiGregorio at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), located in Golden, Colorado. It pertains to a project titled “Differential Climate Chamber.” The amendment introduces a new requirement stipulating that the device must be Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) certified or evaluated by an approved third party. The submission deadline for offers remains unchanged, and all other terms and conditions of the original solicitation are still in effect. The amendment aims to enhance compliance and safety standards by ensuring that the required equipment meets recognized industry certifications. This alignment is critical in the context of federal RFPs, where adherence to established safety and performance standards is paramount.
    Amendment 2 to RFQ No. 2024022454.pdf
    This document is an amendment to the solicitation numbered RFQ 2024022454 regarding the "Differential Climate Chamber" project, located in Golden, Colorado. It was issued by Janelle DiGregorio of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The main purpose of this amendment is to extend the deadline for submitting questions from December 18, 2024, to January 2, 2025. All other terms and conditions of the original solicitation remain unchanged and in effect. This amendment underscores the government’s procedural flexibility in RFP processes, allowing potential bidders additional time to seek clarifications regarding the project before the final submission of offers.
    Attachment 1 - Technical Specifications.pdf
    The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is seeking to upgrade its Differential Climate Chamber to improve research capabilities for evaluating the durability and resilience of advanced building envelope technologies. The existing chamber is inadequate due to overutilization and aging equipment, which hampers research progress. The new chamber will support testing innovative materials, such as vacuum insulating glass and carbon-negative components from the ARPA-E HESTIA program. Key specifications for the new chamber include twin clamshell design with controlled climate and interior ambient conditions, customizable temperature cycling from -65°C to 110°C, and humidity control from 10% to 95%. Essential features include UV lamps, misting capabilities, and ample access for maintenance. The project requires delivery, installation, and operational readiness within six months of contract award, alongside bi-weekly progress meetings. The RFP outlines qualifications for vendors, including prior experience and compliance with safety requirements. This initiative underlines NREL's commitment to advancing building technology standards and enhancing research infrastructure in the renewable energy sector.
    Attachment 2 - Payment Milestone Schedule.xlsx
    The document outlines the Payment Milestone Table associated with RFQ No. 2024022454 for the procurement of a Differential Climate Chamber. It details six specified milestones throughout the project lifecycle, which includes the delivery and acceptance of the design and the chamber itself, provision of HVAC system specifications, complete fabrication, validation of the system against technical requirements, and successful installation at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Each milestone is paired with a due date, though the total price for each stage is currently listed as $0.00. This indicates that the funding or pricing structure may be pending or yet to be determined. The purpose of this document, as part of federal RFP processes, is to establish a clear framework for project deliverables and financial management within government contracts.
    Attachment 3 - Guidelines and Specifications for Enhanced Durability Evaluation of Insulating Glass and Vacuum Insulating Glass Units.pdf
    The technical report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) provides guidelines for enhanced durability evaluation of insulating glass units (IGUs) and vacuum insulating glass (VIG) units. It outlines the growing research around the performance and lifespan of these products due to their significant impact on energy consumption in residential and commercial buildings. The report seeks to minimize disruptions to existing industry practices while introducing modified testing protocols to account for climate extremes and material degradation over time. Key enhancements to the evaluation process include increased temperature exposure ranges, rigorous testing for moisture and thermal performance, and protocols for assessing desiccant moisture uptake. This comprehensive guideline aims to serve industry practitioners, with protocols applicable to both sealed IGUs and VIGs, ensuring accurate performance measurements that reflect real-world conditions. By proposing specific testing procedures and performance metrics, NREL promotes a more robust framework for assessing the durability of glazing technologies, thus supporting the adoption of innovative solutions to improve energy efficiency. The document is part of federally funded research and aims to foster collaboration between NREL and industry partners to continuously update and refine the evaluation standards.
    Attachment 4 - E2188-19.pdf
    The document outlines the standard test method E2188-19 for evaluating the performance of insulating glass units (IGUs). This test applies to both double- and triple-glazed IGUs composed of glass and specifically addresses their sealing systems’ durability. It encompasses a detailed testing process involving high humidity and weather exposure cycles, which simulate environmental conditions affecting IGUs. Key procedures include specimen preparation, conditions for accelerated weather testing, and humidity exposure, with dimensions and material specifications defined. The absence of spandrel glass coatings and limitations on high humidity exposure are noted. The document emphasizes that users must establish appropriate safety practices due to possible hazards associated with tests. Test results focus on measuring frost/dew points indicative of durability performance. Proper documentation of specimen details, testing protocols, and recorded observations during the process is mandated. The overarching goal is to standardize assessments that ensure IGUs maintain integrity and performance longevity in varied environmental conditions. This standard is crucial in the context of government RFPs and grants, as it ensures compliance with performance measures for construction materials used in federally funded projects.
    Representations and Certifications SAM Supplement for Commercial Items and Services (Purchase Orders).docx
    The document outlines the Representations and Certifications required for subcontractors and suppliers engaging with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) managed by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC. It emphasizes that all vendors must register in the System for Award Management (SAM) and complete additional representations specific to NREL due to federal reporting obligations. Essential sections include Offeror Information, Employment Eligibility Verification, Small Business Program Representations, and compliance related to the Buy American Act. Offerors are required to indicate their business status, provide taxpayer identification, and disclose any changes during the subcontract period. The document also addresses compliance with export controls, and various certifications, including those regarding payments influencing federal transactions. The overarching aim is to ensure eligible and compliant entities can effectively participate in NREL procurements, while also adhering to government procurement regulations and reporting requirements.
    Request for Quote (RFQ) No. 2024022454.pdf
    The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is seeking quotes for a "Differential Climate Chamber" through Request for Quote (RFQ) No. 2024022454. The procurement process will follow a Lowest Price, Technically Acceptable Selection, wherein the contract is awarded based on the combination of the lowest price and technical specifications outlined in Attachment No. 1. The RFQ was issued on December 4, 2024, with a submission deadline of January 9, 2025. Respondents must submit a comprehensive offer, including an official quote, a cover letter, a payment schedule, and proof of SAM registration. The evaluation process includes an initial assessment of technical acceptability, followed by a price evaluation, with a definitive award decision based on these criteria. NREL also emphasizes compliance with federal regulations, such as the Buy American Act and telecommunications restrictions. To ensure transparency and fairness, any late submissions may still be considered under specific circumstances. This RFQ reflects NREL's commitment to advancing renewable energy technologies while securing competitive offers from suppliers.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Differential Climate Chamber
    Currently viewing
    Solicitation
    Similar Opportunities
    Integrated Biorefinery Facility North High Bay Revitalization Custom Equipment
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The Department of Energy, through the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is soliciting proposals for the "Integrated Biorefinery Facility North High Bay Revitalization Custom Equipment" project. The objective is to design, build, and commission process equipment that will facilitate scale-up piloting experiments aimed at advancing renewable technologies for commercial deployment. This initiative is critical for enhancing biomass conversion and waste carbon utilization capabilities, ultimately supporting the U.S. government's commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Interested parties must submit their proposals electronically by February 7, 2025, with an estimated budget ranging from $9 million to $12 million, and can direct inquiries to Todd Labosky at Todd.Labosky@nrel.gov.
    Climatic Chamber Maintenance and Repair
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, is seeking to procure maintenance and repair services for four climatic chambers on a sole-source basis from Russells Technical Products, Inc. The objective of this procurement is to ensure the preventative maintenance of these critical instruments, which are essential for testing and evaluating various aerospace components under controlled environmental conditions. Interested parties should note that responses to this presolicitation must be submitted within fifteen days of publication, and inquiries can be directed to Jeff Chelston at jeffrey.m.chelston.civ@us.navy.mil or by phone at 240-577-5754.
    Dilution Refrigerator Cryostat System
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The Department of Energy, through the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, is seeking proposals for the procurement of a Dilution Refrigerator Cryostat System. This system is essential for advanced scientific research, particularly in quantum sensing applications, and must meet specific technical requirements including a base temperature capability of 10 milliKelvin or lower and a cooling power of at least 400 microwatts at 100mK. Proposals must be submitted electronically by January 14, 2025, at 4 PM PST, and remain valid for 90 days post-submission. Interested vendors should direct inquiries to Stephanie Low at stephl@slac.stanford.edu and ensure compliance with all outlined terms and conditions in the RFP documentation.
    44--Sources Sought Notice Graphite Vacuum Chamber Furnace and Hot Walled Retort Fur
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The U.S. Department of Energy's National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) is conducting a Sources Sought Notice to identify contractors capable of providing a graphite vacuum chamber furnace and a hot walled retort furnace for pyrolysis. The procurement aims to support the BIL-METALLIC funded Multi-Year Research Project, which focuses on advancing energy security through improved manufacturing and materials performance. Interested parties are invited to submit a cover page and a Statement of Capabilities detailing their qualifications by 4:00 PM Eastern Standard Time on December 27, 2024, to Stefanie.Page@netl.doe.gov. This notice is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a request for proposals or a commitment by the government.
    Notice of Intent: Fundamental Aerodynamics for Offshore Wind Performance and Reliability
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The Department of Energy, through the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is preparing to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) focused on Fundamental Aerodynamics for Offshore Wind Performance and Reliability, with funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The RFP aims to gather high-quality aerodynamic datasets essential for optimizing the design and reliability of large offshore wind turbines, specifically those ranging from 10 to 15 megawatts (MW) and beyond. This initiative is critical as it addresses the challenges associated with the aerodynamic behavior of wind turbine blades under high Reynolds numbers and non-operational conditions, which are vital for improving simulation accuracy and turbine design. The total funding for this opportunity is up to $6.25 million, with proposals expected to be accepted starting in late January 2025, and project execution anticipated to begin by September 20, 2025. Interested parties should contact Jessica Roe at ASP.Responses@nrel.gov and are encouraged to register in the System for Award Management (SAM) to participate.
    Storage Ring ID Transition Chambers for the ALS-U
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The Department of Energy, through the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), is soliciting proposals for the procurement of Storage Ring ID Transition Chambers as part of the Advanced Light Source Upgrade (ALS-U) project. The procurement aims to enhance the capabilities of the ALS by acquiring 31 custom ID Transition chambers, which are critical for particle accelerator applications, ensuring compliance with stringent quality assurance and engineering specifications. Proposals must be submitted by January 10, 2025, and interested vendors can direct inquiries to Arielle Anoop at aanoop@lbl.gov or by phone at 510-486-5519. Additional documentation and specifications can be accessed via the provided Google Drive link.
    VC04 & VC12 Pumping Station
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The Department of Energy, through the Berkeley National Laboratory, is soliciting bids for the manufacturing design, fabrication, inspection, and delivery of VC04 and VC12 Pumping Stations for the Advanced Light Source Upgrade (ALS-U) project. The procurement involves a total of eight vacuum chambers, with specific requirements for ultra-high vacuum (UHV) capabilities, CNC machining, and clean room assembly. This equipment is critical for the laboratory's operations, ensuring compliance with federal standards and contributing to advanced scientific research. Interested bidders must submit their quotations by January 22, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Janet Schlock at JSchlock@lbl.gov or by phone at 510-486-5314.
    Semiconductor Parameter Analyzer
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The Department of Energy, through the Fermi Research Alliance, LLC, is seeking proposals for a Semiconductor Parameter Analyzer to support research at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia, Illinois. The procurement aims to acquire a commercial product that includes an analyzer mainframe, medium-power source measurement units, a pulse measurement unit, and a capacitance-voltage unit, all essential for advanced semiconductor testing and analysis. This equipment is critical for enhancing research capabilities in energy-related projects, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and standards. Interested vendors must submit their quotes, including completed certifications (SARC and PUR-466), by January 27, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Cathleen Stadler at cstadler@fnal.gov or by phone at 630-840-2763.
    Elecrtical Materials
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in Washington, DC, is soliciting quotations for the procurement of electrical heating materials under a firm-fixed-price contract. This opportunity requires vendors to provide brand-name or equal new equipment, which must be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, and bidders must be authorized distributors or original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for the proposed items. The procurement is critical for maintaining the functionality and safety of the NRL's electrical systems, with specific requirements detailed in the associated documentation, including a list of necessary electrical supplies and equipment. Interested parties must submit their technical and price quotes via email, including their DUNS and Cage codes, by the specified deadline, with all inquiries directed to Andrea Graves at Andrea.L.graves6CIV@NRL.NAVY.MIL.
    44--Electron Beam Melting Furnace
    Active
    Energy, Department Of
    The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), through the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), is seeking information from contractors capable of manufacturing an electron beam melting furnace designed to produce alloy ingots of refractory Nb metal-based and similar alloys. This Sources Sought Notice aims to identify potential sources for this specialized equipment, which is critical for advancing alloy manufacturing and materials performance in challenging environments. Interested parties are required to submit a cover page and a brief Statement of Capabilities by 4:00 PM Eastern Standard Time on January 3, 2025, to David Lahey at David.Lahey@netl.doe.gov, with no proposals or pricing information requested at this stage.