Blackbody cavity calibration bath
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
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has issued a Sources Sought notice for a Blackbody cavity calibration bath to support and extend its IR thermometer calibration capabilities at its Gaithersburg, MD facility. This market research aims to identify sources capable of providing a bath with an operating range of -20 °C to +130 °C, featuring dry-air purges and high heat-transfer fluid. Responses are due by April 30, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
NIST requires one OB-15/2 BBLT Calibration Bath, one ASTM standard blackbody cavity with a 74 mm opening, and fifteen units of Silicone oil fluid. The bath must maintain temperatures from -20 °C to +130 °C, support dry-air purges from the rear to prevent frost/condensation, and utilize a high heat-transfer fluid for minimal temperature gradients and uniformity.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: April 30, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Published: April 3, 2026, 4:30 PM ET
- Place of Performance: Gaithersburg, MD
Response Requirements
Interested parties should provide company details (name, address, contact, UEI), equipment specifics (manufacturer, model, technical specifications, reseller status), performance capabilities, customization options, and any aspects of the notice that cannot be met. Respondents must also state manufacturing location, NAICS code status (small/other than small business), available services (installation, training, maintenance), standard terms of sale, facility renovation services, pricing information, existing Federal Supply Schedule contracts, and customer references. Responses should be submitted via email to the Primary Point of Contact.
Additional Notes
This is a market research notice only and does not constitute a commitment by NIST to issue a solicitation or award a contract. No solicitation is available at this time, and the Government is not obligated to pay for information provided. Responses will be used to determine industry capabilities and potential small business participation.