Ultra High Vacuum (UHV) Pump Cart
ID: 1333ND25QNB680209Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
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)

Set Aside

Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5) (SBA)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Commerce, specifically the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), is seeking proposals for the procurement of an Ultra High Vacuum (UHV) Pump Cart, aimed at supporting advanced measurement technologies for superconducting nanowire single photon detectors. The UHV pump cart must meet stringent specifications, including achieving an ultimate pressure of less than 10^-8 hPa and include essential components such as a turbomolecular pump, backing pump, and pressure gauge, all while being mobile for laboratory use. This procurement is critical for enhancing U.S. measurement science and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Interested small businesses must submit their firm-fixed-price quotations by 5:00 PM Eastern Time on June 14, 2025, to Cielo Ibarra at cielo.ibarra@nist.gov, with the contract expected to be awarded shortly thereafter.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document is an amendment (0001) to a Request for Quotation (RFQ) issued by the Department of Commerce’s National Institutes of Standards and Technology. It details updates made to the Statement of Work (SOW), specifically focusing on changes in Section III’s Minimum Requirements. The revision clarifies that an alternative standard flange can be used for a pressure test, provided that an adapter to DN 40 ISO-KF is included for flexibility in application. Additionally, the amendment incorporates a document containing questions and answers relevant to the solicitation, aimed at enhancing clarity for potential respondents. This amendment serves to ensure that the procurement process is transparent and meets specific technical requirements, underscoring the government's efforts to optimize operations and uphold standards in their contracting practices.
    The document responds to questions regarding a Request for Quotation (RFQ) related to a turbo pump system needed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Key specifications outlined include the expected turbo pumping rate, which should be approximately 50 L/s, although there is no stringent requirement for this figure. The mobile system must include casters for mobility within a laboratory environment, but locking casters, while preferred, are not mandatory. A noted conflict pertains to the specifications for the inlet type; the document indicates that an alternative inlet standard may be acceptable if necessary to meet the required pressure specifications of 10^-8 hPa, suggesting flexibility in the bidding process. Overall, the responses clarify expectations for potential vendors while emphasizing adherence to performance requirements.
    The document outlines a solicitation (RFQ 1333ND25QNB680209) for a UHV Pump Cart, intended for small businesses under simplified acquisition procedures as stipulated by FAR 13. It specifies a 100% set-aside for small enterprises, aiming to procure commercial products or services in line with NAICS code 334516. Offerors are required to submit firm-fixed-price quotations for one unit, adhering to the detailed Statement of Work outlined in Attachment #1. Quotations are due by 5:00 PM Eastern Time on June 14, 2025, and must be delivered electronically to designated contact emails. The criteria for evaluation prioritize technical capability and lowest pricing, ensuring compliance with established specifications. Offerors must include their technical approach, terms and conditions compliance, and representation certifications with their bids. Key clauses include provisions for small business subcontracting plans and adherence to federal laws such as the Buy American Act. The solicitation emphasizes the requirement for registered bidders in the System for Award Management (SAM). The process underscores the importance of rigorous documentation and compliance to facilitate a transparent procurement process, reflecting a commitment to involve small businesses in government contracts.
    The document outlines deviations to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) provisions 52.212-3 and 52.212-5, which pertain to offeror representations and contract terms required for federal contracts, particularly focusing on commercial products and services. It emphasizes that some representations may not be applicable for award decisions, detailing provisions related to affirmative action compliance and other statutory requirements. Specific sections are reserved for important clauses such as similar provisions that were previously effective. These deviations highlight the agency's updates to ensure compliance with Executive Orders addressing equal opportunity and affirmative action within federal contracting procedures. The document serves to inform contracting officers and offerors about the current requirements and adjustments needed for submissions, particularly in light of any misalignments between agency solicitations and the System for Award Management (SAM) registrations. Overall, it reflects the federal government’s commitment to maintaining integrity and compliance in contractor relationships while adapting to policy updates.
    The NIST Requirements Document outlines the procurement of an ultra-high vacuum (UHV) pump cart, essential for testing superconducting nanowire single photon detectors at the Low Background Infrared facility. The document details the expected capabilities of the pump system, including components like a turbomolecular pump, backing pump, and pressure gauge, with specific performance metrics such as achieving an ultimate pressure of less than 10^-8 hPa and being mobile for lab use. All equipment must be new and come with original packaging and documentation. The contractor is tasked with delivering the UHV pump cart to NIST in Gaithersburg, Maryland, within 100 days of award. Acceptance involves rigorous inspections for functionality and damage, with a one-year warranty on the equipment. The payment will be made after successful installation and acceptance by designated NIST personnel. This request for proposal (RFP) emphasizes the importance of reliable UHV technology in advancing U.S. measurement science, underlining NIST's role in supporting industry and trade standards.
    The NIST Sensor Science Division is seeking an ultra-high vacuum (UHV) pump cart to facilitate measurements of superconducting nanowire single photon detectors (SNSPD) at its Low Background Infrared facility. The pump cart must include a turbomolecular pump, backing pump, pressure gauge, and all necessary interconnections, meeting stringent specifications such as achieving an ultimate pressure below 10-8 hPa and a backing pump performance of less than 3x10-2 hPa. All items must be new and properly shipped, with delivery expected within 100 days after award. Inspection and acceptance of the equipment will be conducted at NIST, ensuring the UHV pump cart is tested and free of damage. The contractor will provide a minimum one-year warranty, with payment to be issued upon successful installation and acceptance of the system. This request demonstrates the NIST's commitment to maintaining cutting-edge measurement technologies essential for supporting U.S. industry and trade.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
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