CHIPS R&D X-Ray Tube Source
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), Department of Commerce, has issued a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (RFQ) for a CHIPS R&D X-Ray Tube Source. This opportunity seeks a new x-ray emission source to conduct measurements of fundamental atomic properties of materials used in semiconductor manufacturing. The competition is unrestricted, and proposals are due by July 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET.
Scope of Work
NIST requires a new x-ray tube source capable of emitting x-rays up to 15 keV, designed to operate in a standard laboratory setting. Key requirements include adjustable accelerating voltage and output intensity, a controllable spectrum (ideally with two or more anode materials), and built-in x-ray safety systems. All items must be new; experimental or prototype items will not be considered. Minimum specifications include an electron acceleration voltage of at least 15 kV and power of at least 10 watts, complete with power supply and necessary wiring.
Optional items include additional anodes (1 to 6), higher-voltage operation (up to 20 kV, 25 kV, or 30 kV), and x-ray focusing or collimating optics.
Deliverables & Schedule
One x-ray source unit, along with any ordered optional optics, is required within 26 weeks after receipt of the order. Delivery will be to NIST Boulder, Colorado. Inspection and acceptance will occur within 30 days of receipt, with ownership transferring upon acceptance. A minimum 1-year warranty after acceptance is required. Payment will be 100% after installation, acceptance, successful testing, and demonstration of performance requirements.
Contract Details & Eligibility
This is a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for a Firm-Fixed-Price Purchase Order. The NAICS code is 334517, with a small business size standard of 1,000 employees. This is an unrestricted competition. Offerors must maintain an ACTIVE registration in SAM.gov at the time of quotation submission, award, performance, and final payment.
Submission & Evaluation
Electronic quotations must be received by July 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET. Submissions should be emailed to tracy.retterer@nist.gov and donald.collier@nist.gov, referencing the RFQ number in the subject line. Written questions are due by June 27, 2026 (5 calendar days after the solicitation issuance date).
Quotations must be clearly written, indexed, and logically assembled into four distinct volumes: Technical Quotation, Demonstrated Experience Quotation, Price Quotation, and Terms and Conditions. Award will be based on best value, with non-price factors (Technical Capability and Prior Demonstrated Experience) being more important than price. Technical Capability will be assessed on the proposed solution's ability to meet SOW requirements, with higher confidence given to products offering specific electron acceleration potentials (up to 20 kV, 25 kV, or 30 kV). The government may award without discussions.
Additional Requirements
The solution must comply with federal cybersecurity laws and standards (FISMA, OMB Circular A-130, FIPS Publication 200), requiring a system security plan, IT management processes, restricted access to sensitive PII, vulnerability scanning, and incident response. Encryption of sensitive PII in transit (TLS 1.2+) and at rest (FIPS 140-2/140-3 validated) is mandatory. Training for up to five users on operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting must be completed within 30 days after installation. Bidders must review all applicable FAR and local NIST provisions and clauses, including those related to Buy American and security prohibitions.