Notice of Intent to Sole Source SQUID Magnetometer Upgrade
ID: NB686000-25-01359Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

COMMERCE, DEPARTMENT OFNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGYUS

NAICS

Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing (334519)

PSC

LABORATORY EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES (6640)
Timeline
    Description

    The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking to negotiate a sole-source contract with Quantum Design Inc. for an upgrade to an existing SQUID Magnetometer at its Boulder, Colorado facility. The objective of this procurement is to transition the current system to a closed cryostat, which will eliminate the need for weekly liquid helium refills while maintaining its sensitivity and temperature range of 1.8 K to 400 K. This upgrade is critical for the Physical Measurement Laboratory's Spin Electronics Group, ensuring the continued performance and reliability of the magnetometer. Interested parties that can meet the requirements must submit their capabilities in writing to the primary contact, Lisa Stevens, at lisa.stevens@nist.gov by the specified deadline, with an estimated award date of May 31, 2025.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The file outlines the requirements for upgrading a SQUID (Superconducting Quantum Interference Device) Magnetometer at the Physical Measurement Laboratory's Spin Electronics Group. This project aims to transition the existing system to a closed cryostat, eliminating the weekly need for liquid helium while retaining its technical specifications, such as sensitivity and temperature range (1.8 K – 400 K). The upgrade must be performed onsite in Boulder, CO, within a 12-month period after the award, and it encompasses various specifications, including the provision of essential equipment like compressors and cold heads. The contractor is expected to ensure that no refurbished or prototype equipment is used and to provide necessary training for NIST staff. Additionally, the acceptance criteria involve verifying the upgraded system's performance against established benchmarks. The government retains the right to inspect, test, and either accept or reject the equipment based on compliance with defined performance standards. This document serves as a Request for Proposal (RFP), seeking detailed deliverable information from potential contractors regarding the upgrade's execution and equipment provisions.
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