Sources Sought: Closed Cycle Cryogenic Cooling System
ID: NB672010-25-02165Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

COMMERCE, DEPARTMENT OFNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGYDEPT OF COMMERCE NISTGAITHERSBURG, MD, 20899, USA

NAICS

Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (334516)

PSC

LABORATORY EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES (6640)
Timeline
    Description

    The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking information from vendors capable of providing a Closed Cycle Cryogenic Cooling System to enhance an existing cryogenic microwave probe station. The system must eliminate the reliance on liquid cryogens and include essential components such as a helium compressor and a cryocooler with a cooling capacity of 1.5W@4.2K, along with installation support and training to ensure compliance with technical specifications. This procurement is critical for facilitating calibrated microwave measurements of materials and circuits at variable temperatures, with delivery expected by January 31, 2026, to NIST-Boulder, CO. Interested parties should submit their capability statements to Clifford Nicholson at clifford.nicholson@nist.gov by the specified deadline, as this announcement is part of market research to determine potential small business set-aside opportunities.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The Communications Technology Laboratory’s RF Technology Division is seeking a Closed Cycle Cryogenic Cooling System to enhance an existing cryogenic microwave probe station by eliminating the reliance on liquid cryogens. The system, which must be compatible with the current probe station, includes critical components such as a helium compressor, a cryocooler with a cooling capacity of 1.5W@4.2K, gas lines, and various control mechanisms for steady-state cooling. Delivery is expected by January 31, 2026, to NIST-Boulder, CO. Additional requirements include installation support, a warranty, and provisions for temperature monitoring, all designed to ensure smooth operation for calibrated microwave measurements of materials and circuits at variable temperatures. Proper training and inspection upon installation are also outlined, demonstrating the project's emphasis on functionality and compliance with technical specifications.
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