Amendment to Solicitation for High Finesse Dual Wavelength Reference Cavity
ID: 1333ND25QNB680097Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

COMMERCE, DEPARTMENT OFUS

NAICS

Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (334516)

PSC

LABORATORY EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES (6640)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Commerce, specifically the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), is seeking qualified vendors to provide a high-finesse dual-wavelength reference cavity system essential for advancing research in thermodynamic temperature measurements. The procurement aims to acquire a system that integrates two Fabry-Perot cavities within a single cylindrical spacer made of Ultra-Low Expansion glass, with stringent specifications including a finesse greater than 100,000 and low frequency noise levels for accurate Doppler thermometer readings. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to enhancing national measurement standards and scientific research capabilities. Interested parties should direct inquiries to Elizabeth Timberlake at elizabeth.timberlake@nist.gov, with submissions required by the specified deadlines outlined in the solicitation documents.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Elizabeth Timberlake
    elizabeth.timberlake@nist.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document outlines a solicitation for a Request for Quotation (RFQ) from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for a high-finesse, dual-wavelength reference cavity system used in thermodynamic temperature measurement research. It emphasizes the need for a system that integrates high-finesse cavities for cesium and ytterbium spectroscopy lasers. The RFQ is structured for full and open competition under FAR guidelines and includes specific submission requirements for technical capability, past performance, and pricing. Offerors must prepare their quotations in four volumes, clearly addressing technical specifications and past contractual performances. The selection will prioritize technical capabilities over past performance, with the overall price also factoring into the government’s decision. Key criteria include the ability to meet specifications such as finesse >100,000 at specified wavelengths. Additionally, the document provides detailed instructions for submissions, including required clauses and provisions, SAM registration, and deadlines for electronic submission. This procurement highlights the government's commitment to acquiring cutting-edge technology for enhancing scientific research capabilities while ensuring transparent and competitive proposal evaluations.
    The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) requires the procurement of a high-finesse, dual-wavelength reference cavity (HDRC) system to advance research in thermodynamics, specifically for precise temperature measurements using atomic gases. The system must integrate two Fabry-Perot cavities into a single cylindrical spacer made of Ultra-Low Expansion glass, achieving very low frequency noise levels necessary for accurate Doppler thermometer readings. Key specifications include tight tolerances on mirror quality, vacuum housing with temperature control systems, and a strict maximum linear drift rate. The contractor is responsible for ensuring all equipment is new, properly packaged, and comes with a minimum one-year warranty. Delivery must occur within 14 weeks, and acceptance will involve rigorous performance tests at NIST facilities. The document clearly outlines the scope, minimum requirements, site preparation, delivery terms, inspection protocols, installation process, and payment schedules, emphasizing the structured design of government RFPs to facilitate essential research infrastructure development. Overall, the procurement bid reflects NIST's commitment to enhancing national measurement standards in thermodynamics.
    The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) requires the procurement of a high-finesse, dual-wavelength reference cavity (HDRC) system to advance research in thermodynamics, specifically for precise temperature measurements using atomic gases. The system must integrate two Fabry-Perot cavities into a single cylindrical spacer made of Ultra-Low Expansion glass, achieving very low frequency noise levels necessary for accurate Doppler thermometer readings. Key specifications include tight tolerances on mirror quality, vacuum housing with temperature control systems, and a strict maximum linear drift rate. The contractor is responsible for ensuring all equipment is new, properly packaged, and comes with a minimum one-year warranty. Delivery must occur within 14 weeks, and acceptance will involve rigorous performance tests at NIST facilities. The document clearly outlines the scope, minimum requirements, site preparation, delivery terms, inspection protocols, installation process, and payment schedules, emphasizing the structured design of government RFPs to facilitate essential research infrastructure development. Overall, the procurement bid reflects NIST's commitment to enhancing national measurement standards in thermodynamics.
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