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 Department of the Navy, Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD), China Lake, California, intends to procure a Lithography-Based Ceramic Manufacturing (LCM) Multi-Material 3D Printer. This presolicitation notice indicates the upcoming solicitation will seek a standalone, enclosed printer unit to support research, development, testing, processing, and production of ceramic-based composite materials. The anticipated solicitation release date is January 27, 2026.
Scope of Work
The LCM 3D printer will be used to produce ceramic composite test articles and small-scale proof-of-concept parts, supporting research into novel material development and efficient production methods. The system must include:
- A standalone printer unit with two interior rotating vats, material dispersion, cleaning, an integrated build platform, light source, relevant print file preparation software, and integrated GUI controls.
- A benchtop cleaning station.
- Optional thermal post-processing equipment (ovens and furnaces).
Key performance requirements for the printer include a minimum build volume of 2.6" x 1.6" x 6.5", compatibility with various ceramic slurries (e.g., alumina, zirconia), multi-material printing capability (at least two distinct materials), lateral resolution of at least 35 microns, and a build speed of up to 100 layers per hour. The system must be an open platform with no recurring licensing fees and no integrated Wi-Fi or internet connectivity required for core functions.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation
- Procurement Type: Anticipated competitive procedures under full and open competition.
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price (FFP) single award contract.
- Set-Aside: None specified.
- Anticipated Solicitation Release: On or about January 27, 2026.
- Published: January 12, 2026.
Special Requirements & Notes
Installation and setup will occur at NAWCWD China Lake. The contractor will be required to provide checkout procedures, instruction manuals, maintenance schedules, and training (both at the contractor facility and on-site). A 1-year warranty and priced options for annual service/maintenance support are also required. Interested firms must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) at sam.gov and PIEE at piee.eb.mil to do business with the federal government. This notice is for informational purposes only and is not a request for competitive proposals.