LCM 3D Printer
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 Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) China Lake intends to procure a lithography-based ceramic manufacturing (LCM) multi-material 3D printer. This presolicitation updates the anticipated Request for Quote (RFQ) posting date to on or around February 9th, 2026. The printer will support current and future research, development, testing, processing, and production of ceramic-based composite materials, including applications like hypersonic radomes.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a standalone LCM Multi-Material 3D Printer system, which must include a benchtop cleaning station and options for thermal post-processing equipment (ovens and furnaces). The printer will produce ceramic composite test articles and small-scale proof-of-concept parts, supporting novel material development and efficient production methods. Key performance standards for the printer include:
- Build Volume: Minimum 2.6" x 1.6" x 6.5" (x/y/z).
- Material Capability: Compatible with commercially available and user-developed ceramic slurries (e.g., alumina, zirconia, silicon nitride, silica-based materials).
- Multi-Material Printing: Capable of printing at least two distinct materials, both between and within layers.
- Resolution: Lateral resolution of at least 35 microns.
- Build Speed: Up to 100 layers per hour.
- Software: Must account for ceramic material shrinkage, allow in-print parameter adjustments, and calculate slurry requirements.
- Security: No integrated Wi-Fi, live video streaming, or internet connectivity required for core functions. Data must be removable and securable.
- System: Open system platform with no recurring licensing fees.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Presolicitation (for a future RFQ)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Product Service Code: 3695 (Miscellaneous Special Industry Machinery)
- RFQ Posting: On or around February 9th, 2026
- Published: January 29, 2026
Place of Performance
Installation and setup will occur at NAWCWD China Lake.
Special Requirements
The contractor will be required to provide checkout procedures, instruction manuals, maintenance manuals, and schedules. Training must be provided during acceptance testing (2 days at contractor facility) and on-site post-installation (safety, programming, hardware operation), with follow-on advanced training offered within the first year. A 1-year warranty against defects is required, along with priced options for annual service/maintenance support. Recommendations for compatible slurry materials and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all provided materials are also necessary.
Action Items
Interested firms must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) database at https://sam.gov/. Monitor SAM.gov for the release of the Request for Quote (RFQ) on or around the specified date.