Milli-Kelvin Scanning Probe Microscope
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
Brookhaven Science Associates, LLC (BSA), operating Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) for the U.S. Department of Energy, is soliciting quotes (RFQ 473768) for a Milli-Kelvin Scanning Probe Microscope (mK-SPM). This non-commercial instrument is required for advanced research at the Center for Functional Nanomaterials, supporting tuning-fork-based atomic force microscopy (TF-AFM), scanning Microwave Impedance Microscopy (sMIM), and Scanning Resonator Microscopy (SRM) at extremely low temperatures (<= 20 mK) within a high vacuum environment. This is a full and open competition.
Scope of Work
The mK-SPM must operate TF-AFM, support sMIM and SRM, and function at a base temperature of <= 20 mK (performance standard <= 80 mK) within a fully shielded, low-noise, high-vacuum environment. Key instrument capabilities include compatibility with a cryogen-free dilution refrigerator, non-magnetic design, and support for static/adjustable magnetic fields. Performance standards also require Z vibrational noise <= 3 nm RMS and detectable tuning fork amplitude <= 1 nm.
Deliverables include a Program Plan, Technical and Progress Teleconferences, Performance Reports, Final Technical Design, Equipment Footprint and Laboratory Requirements, Installation Work Plan, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Delivery, Site Acceptance Test (SAT) and Commissioning Report, Training for BSA staff, and an End Item Documentation Package. The contractor will be responsible for installation, commissioning, and training.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price
- NAICS Code: 334516 (Size Standard: 1000 employees)
- Period of Performance: From contract execution date through December 15, 2027.
- Anticipated Delivery: Estimated 92 weeks After Receipt of Order (ARO).
- Place of Performance: Upton, NY, 11973, United States.
- Payment Terms: Net 30 for Large/Foreign Businesses, Net 10 for Small Businesses. FOB Destination or DAP.
- Set-Aside: Full and Open Competition.
Eligibility & Submission Requirements
Offerors must have previous experience fabricating and testing mK-SPM systems of comparable complexity, maintain a development team, possess a comprehensive U.S. instrument support network, and have a robust Quality Assurance program (e.g., ISO 9001). All offerors must be registered in SAM.gov. A Small Business Subcontracting Plan is required for offerors expecting to exceed $900,000, unless no subcontracting opportunities exist.
Proposals must be submitted via email and include the signed Quotation Pricing Sheet (Enclosure C). Required forms include Annual Representations & Certifications (AMS-FORM-050), ACH Authorization, and IRS Forms W-9 (for U.S. entities) or W-8BEN-E (for foreign entities).
Key Dates & Evaluation
- Questions Due Date: April 2, 2026
- Quote Due Date & Time: April 18, 2026
- Basis of Award: Award will be made to the responsive and responsible Offeror submitting the lowest total price who meets all technical requirements and qualifiers.
Contact Information
Primary Point of Contact: Mark Brock, mbrock@bnl.gov, 631-344-2713.