Sources Sought - Zero Boiloff Cryostat
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 Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify qualified vendors capable of providing a Zero Boiloff Cryostat. This effort aims to determine potential small business set-aside opportunities for a future acquisition. Responses are due by June 17, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST requires a Zero Boiloff Cryostat system for testing superconducting chips at 4 K in liquid helium. The system must be an established commercial product, new, and include a manufacturer's warranty. Key specifications include:
- Cryostat: Reservoir depth and diameter, 5-10 L liquid helium capacity, heater, temperature controller, liquid helium level gauge, and specific recovery time for boil-off.
- Access: NW40 access port with air lock and gate valve, vacuum pump, and valves for airlock.
- Integrated Features: Helium gas storage, overpressure relief valve, electrical isolation, and an integrated cold trap.
- Services: Vendor technician on-site for installation and start-up services, and a plan for cryocooler maintenance.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified; market research will determine if a small business set-aside is appropriate (all small business categories will be considered if at least two qualified small businesses are identified).
- NAICS: 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 employees)
- Response Due: June 17, 2026, 23:00 UTC
- Published: June 5, 2026
Submission Requirements
Interested organizations should submit electronic capability statements, limited to five (5) pages or less, including:
- Company Profile (employees, office locations, UEI, CAGE Code).
- Name of company providing the product.
- Name of manufacturer and country of origin.
- Specification sheets and examples of products meeting the attached specifications.
- Typical lead time for delivery, installation, and training.
- Identification and verification of the company’s small business status.
- Any other relevant information for market research.
Evaluation
Responses will be utilized to determine if any Small Business Set-aside opportunities exist and to identify potential and eligible firms of all sizes prior to determining the method of acquisition and issuing a solicitation.
Additional Notes
This is not a Request for Quotation (RFQ) and does not commit the Government to award a contract. The Government will not pay for information received in response to this announcement. Delivery is required at NIST-Boulder, CO.