Environmental Test Chamber
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), under the Department of Commerce, is soliciting quotations for an Environmental Test Chamber and a Water Recirculation System. This Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (RFQ) aims to procure equipment for testing electronic devices made of GaN and 2D materials, supporting reliability testing and next-generation electronics development at NIST's Boulder, CO facility. This is a full and open acquisition. Quotations are due by March 5, 2026, at 12:00 pm Eastern Time.
Scope of Work
NIST requires a standalone environmental test chamber capable of adjusting temperature and humidity, with an electronics controller and feedthroughs. Key specifications include a broad temperature range of -35°C to +175°C (with ±0.5°C control tolerance and ±1°C uniformity) and a full humidity range of 10% to 95% RH. The chamber must feature a GN2 purge system, four event relays, an electronic touch screen controller, high/low limit control and alarm, a viewing window, interior light, and 4-inch access ports. It must utilize Non-CFC Cascade Refrigeration and require a 120V input (20 Amp Outlet). A compatible closed-loop water recirculation system, utilizing tap water, with necessary pumps and connectors, along with a 3-year supply of water filters, is also required. All items must be new, with no experimental, prototype, custom, or "gray market" components. Installation is required within 30 days of delivery.
Contract Details
This is a firm-fixed-price acquisition resulting in a single purchase order. The NAICS code is 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with a 1,000-employee small business size standard. The place of performance is NIST, 325 Broadway, Boulder CO 80305, Building 2. The period of performance for delivery is up to 15 weeks from the date of award. Delivery terms are FOB Destination. A minimum 1-year warranty is required, including 3-year parts and 1-year labor. Payment will be 100% after installation, acceptance, and successful demonstration of performance.
Submission & Evaluation
Quotations must be submitted electronically via email to junee.johnson@nist.gov and forest.crumpler@nist.gov by March 5, 2026, 12:00 pm Eastern Time. Submissions must reference the RFQ number in the subject line and be clearly written, indexed, and logically assembled into three volumes: Volume I (Technical Quotation) demonstrating how proposed items meet or exceed SOW requirements; Volume II (Price Quotation) providing a firm-fixed-price for each CLIN, including shipping, valid for 90 days; and Volume III (Terms and Conditions) completing required information from Attachment #2. Award will be made to the lowest priced, technically acceptable (LPTA) offeror. The government may award without discussions. Offerors must have an ACTIVE SAM.gov registration. Written pre-quote inquiries are due within 2 calendar days of solicitation issuance.
Key Provisions
Attachment #2, "Clauses and Provisions," outlines critical solicitation provisions and contract clauses incorporated by reference or in full text, including FAR 52.212-4, Trade Agreements, Place of Manufacture, and NIST-specific local clauses. Bidders must review these to understand legal obligations, submission requirements, and contract terms.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact Junee Johnson (junee.johnson@nist.gov) or Forest Crumpler (forest.crumpler@nist.gov).