Request for Information/Sources Sought Notice for 15 ksi Cryogenic Vessel
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 Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Stennis Space Center (SSC) has issued a Request for Information (RFI)/Sources Sought Notice to identify qualified vendors capable of designing and fabricating two 15 ksi Cryogenic Vessels. This is a market research effort to gauge industry capabilities and interest. Responses are due by April 24, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. CST.
Scope of Work
NASA SSC is seeking information on high-pressure, vacuum-jacketed cryogenic vessels suitable for Liquid Oxygen, Liquid Hydrogen, and/or Liquid Methane service. Key requirements include:
- Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP): 15,000 psig
- Minimum Volume: 500 gallons (volume can deviate based on forge tooling)
- Operating Temperature: Minimum -423°F, Maximum 100°F
- Construction: ASME Code rated vacuum-jacketed vessel (ASME BPVC Section VIII Divisions I, II, or III), piping to ASME B31.3. Must include vacuum insulation, diffuser, and anti-vortex device.
- Mechanical Interface: Main nozzle on bottom, 6-inch R-CON or equivalent primary connection. Fill, pressurization, and vent nozzles location TBD, type R-Con.
- Testing & Certification: Shall conform to ASME BPVC, with hydrostatic or proof testing at the vendor facility.
- Marking: Permanently marked with manufacturer part number, serial number, MAWP, date of manufacture, and pressure test information.
RFI Details & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Purpose: To determine the scope of industry capabilities and interest; not a solicitation.
- Set-Aside: None specified (as this is an RFI).
- Response Due: April 24, 2026, 1:00 P.M. CST
- Published: April 13, 2026
- Agency: National Aeronautics And Space Administration
- Office: NASA STENNIS SPACE CENTER
- Place of Performance: Stennis Space Center, MS
Response Requirements
Vendors should provide a response limited to ten pages (MS Word or PDF) including:
- Legal Name, full Address, and Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).
- Detailed description of interest and ability to perform.
- All relevant small business designations.
- Examples of up to three past projects of similar size and complexity.
- Capability statement, ASME certifications, in-house testing capability, ROM cost and schedule, and any exceptions.
Questions for Industry
NASA is seeking recommendations on NAICS codes, average project duration, warranty inclusion, additional recommendations for proposing, and whether the item is considered COTS.
Additional Notes
This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to issue a solicitation or award a contract. Responses are voluntary and will not be returned. Proprietary information should be appropriately marked.