ALS SHB pulsed RF HPA
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), a U.S. Department of Energy contractor, is soliciting proposals for two Sub-Harmonic Buncher (SHB) pulsed Radio Frequency (RF) High Power Amplifiers (HPA). One unit is required at 125 MHz and the second at 500 MHz. These solid-state HPAs are intended to replace existing tube-based amplifiers in the Advanced Light Source (ALS) LINAC system to improve performance, reliability, and serviceability. Proposals are due May 8, 2026, by 3 PM Pacific Time.
Scope of Work
The selected vendor will be responsible for the design, manufacture, testing, and delivery of two 25 kW pulsed high-power solid-state amplifiers (125 MHz and 500 MHz). This includes procuring all necessary items, tools, and test equipment. The HPAs must be based on the latest solid-state RF LDMOS or GaN FET technology, feature a modular topology, and meet high reliability standards (MTBF > 150,000 hours) with fault tolerance. Compliance is required with the Engineering Specification Document (ESD) AL-1887-8780 and the Statement of Work (SOW) AL-1887-8783, which detail specific RF performance, power, environmental, construction, and control system requirements.
Contract Details
This will be a Firm Fixed-Price contract with an estimated term of 12 months for design, fabrication, and commissioning. The contract value will be determined based on a combination of performance, quality/reliability, and cost. A comprehensive, on-site warranty for 3 years from acceptance or 3.5 years from delivery is required. The NAICS Code is 334220 (Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing) with a Small Business Size Standard of 1,250 employees. Offerors must complete the Small Business Program Representations clause.
Submission & Evaluation
Proposals must be submitted via email to AMathias@lbl.gov by May 8, 2026, 3 PM Pacific Time. Questions from offerors are due by April 20, 2026. Evaluation will be based on technical factors (ability to meet requirements, delivery & schedule, quality assurance, past performance) and price, with the goal of selecting the offeror providing the best overall value. LBNL reserves the right to award to other than the lowest price offeror and may make an award without discussions. Required submissions include the RFP SHB Pulsed RF HPA ESD Response Sheet, Past Performance Reference Information Form, Representations & Certifications, and the Price Proposal Schedule.
Key Compliance Requirements
Bidders must adhere to extensive LBNL standards and policies, including:
- Electrical Safety: All electrical equipment must be NRTL listed, labeled, and certified. Compliance with LBNL Electrical Equipment Build Standard, Electrical Safety Manual, Safe Electrical Installations Policy, and Electrical Equipment Safety Program is mandatory.
- Quality Assurance: Maintain an effective QA/QC program meeting ISO-9001 standards and LBNL's Quality Assurance Program Description (PUB 3111).
- Environmental: Compliance with sustainability initiatives, including recycled content, biobased products, energy efficiency, and waste reduction.
- Other: Adherence to seismic safety for equipment anchoring, lateral force design criteria, non-ionizing radiation safety, and specific technical specifications for 600V and low-voltage electrical conductors and cables. Comprehensive documentation in English is required.