RFI: Area Radiation Monitor Procurement for APS
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
Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) for Area Radiation Monitors (ARMs) for its Advanced Photon Source (APS) facility. This RFI seeks vendors capable of sourcing, maintaining, and supporting a system of approximately 50 ARMs to replace existing end-of-life units. The information gathered will be used for planning purposes, and responses are non-binding. Responses are due by March 3, 2026.
Purpose
This RFI is for planning and informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment by ANL to award a contract. It aims to evaluate potential vendors and solutions for a critical safety component at the APS facility. An RFP is anticipated for Q2 2026, with a contract award projected for FY27.
Scope of Requirement
ANL requires a system of approximately 50 ARMs, each comprising a control unit, capable of measuring x-ray and neutron dose rates from particle accelerator operations. Key technical requirements include:
- Detection: Neutron (thermal - 1 GeV) and Photon (100 keV - 10 MeV) radiation, including pulsed radiation.
- Interface: Ethernet communication with native EPICS driver support preferred for integration into the control system.
- Physical: Max 11"(W) x 16"(H) x 8"(D), NEMA 12 / IP54 or better enclosure, 120 VAC 60 Hz power.
- Operational: Local display for dose rates, local/remote alarm systems with "Press to Test" function, and isolated relay outputs for alarms and system failures. The RFI also seeks information on vendor capabilities for support models, warranty, calibration, software updates, on-site support, repair turnaround, spare parts, and production capacity.
Key Information Requested
Vendors are requested to provide a Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) budgetary estimate for per-unit cost, Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE), annual support/maintenance, training, and shipping/commissioning. ANL plans an initial delivery of 10 units, followed by a multi-year rollout.
Submission Details
Responses should address Sections 1-6 of the "ANL-651 RFI for APS ARMs" document and complete the "Vendor Capability" column on the "APS-U Radiation Monitor Spec Sheet." Submissions, including any questions, must be sent to Molly Hunter at mollyhunter@anl.gov by 12:00 PM CST on March 3, 2026. The Notice ID (8d542614c27945eeaa3dc8036644211d) should be included in the subject line. Proprietary or confidential information must be clearly marked on each page.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: March 3, 2026, 12:00 PM CST
- Published: February 13, 2026
- Anticipated RFP: Q2 2026
- Anticipated Award: FY27
Place of Performance
Argonne National Laboratory, Illinois, United States.
Contact
Molly Hunter, mollyhunter@anl.gov, 630-252-3094.