Integrated Tube Furnace and Glove Box

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for the acquisition of an Integrated Tube Furnace and Glove Box system. Ames National Laboratory, operated by Iowa State University for the U.S. Department of Energy, is seeking proposals for this integrated system.

• A turnkey, fully integrated system including a glovebox, furnace, transfer interface, gas handling, vacuum capability, controls, and documentation.

• The system must be inert-atmosphere capable with purification to achieve and maintain O2 < 1 ppm and H2O < 1 ppm.

• It must include a hydrogen-capable high-pressure split tube furnace with a sealed Ni-based superalloy pressure-vessel tube (greater than 2-inch diameter preferred).

• A sealed glovebox-to-furnace transfer interface is required.

• Gas handling manifold for inert gas and hydrogen, including leak detection, emergency shutoff, and relief/venting provisions.

• Vacuum system for the furnace tube and glovebox antechambers.

• On-site commissioning and operator training are required.

• Delivery and installation must be completed before March 15th.

• The Laboratory intends to award a Firm Fixed Price Purchase Order.

• The minimum acceptance period for offers is 30 calendar days.

• Proposals must be submitted via email to the Procurement Agent by 4 PM Central Time on January 22, 2026.

• The anticipated award date is January 23, 2026.

• Evaluation will be based on Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA).

• Technical acceptability will be determined by the ability to meet all requirements in Appendix C, including delivery and installation, and by taking no exceptions to the Ames National Laboratory Terms and Conditions.

• This acquisition is unrestricted, open competition.

• Offerors are encouraged to utilize small businesses and small minority businesses as sub-subcontractors.

• Offerors are advised that the Laboratory is eligible to receive educational discounted pricing.

• Offerors may also propose discounted pricing off GSA Federal Supply Schedules (FSS) or NASA SEWP contracts.

• Any questions regarding this solicitation should be directed to the Procurement Agent. Direct contact with anyone other than the Procurement Agent or their designee is prohibited.