High Temperature Controlled Atmosphere Furnace Suite
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 Naval Air Weapons Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) China Lake is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify qualified sources for a High Temperature, Controlled Atmosphere Furnace Suite. This suite will support research, development, testing, processing, and production of metal and ceramic-based composite materials. Responses are due June 15, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a furnace suite comprising two furnace chambers, two vacuum systems, a combined chiller, and control cabinets. Key specifications include:
- First Furnace: Max 1300°C, 14.8" x 11.8" x 11.8" chamber.
- Second Furnace: Max 2200°C, 12" x 12" x 12" chamber.
- Both require integrated radiation/heat shields, water-cooled construction, and top-loading designs.
- Vacuum Systems: Achieve 10^-5 torr pressure.
- Gas Systems: Support argon and nitrogen up to 2 PSIG.
- Control Systems: Touch screen HMIs with recipe programming and data viewing. No Wi-Fi, live video, or internet connectivity allowed.
- Footprint: Assembled suite must fit within 5ft x 10ft and be under 7ft tall.
- Performance Standards: Uniform temperature zone (+/- 10°C), rapid vacuum pump-down, low leak rate, safe backfill, exterior surface temp < 60°C, noise < 70dB.
- Special Requirements: NRTL electrical certification, NFPA compliance, integrated UPS, and critical spare parts.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research Only)
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: June 15, 2026, by 2:00 PM PST
- Published: May 29, 2026
Evaluation
This is not a request for competitive proposals. Responses will be used for market research to determine industry capability. Firms are encouraged to submit a capability statement detailing experience, assets, and ability to perform the work. Comments and recommendations on the draft Performance Work Statement (PWS) are also welcomed.
Additional Notes
- A Cyber Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 1 (FCI Self) is anticipated. Firms are invited to provide rationale if they disagree with this level.
- The contractor must have at least 10 years of demonstrated experience in high-temperature furnace engineering.
- Training for personnel at contractor facilities and on-site at NAWCWD is required, along with a 1-year warranty.