Two 2.3K Mechanical Cryocooler Systems
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 a Sources Sought for Two 2.3K Mechanical Cryocooler Systems for its facility in Boulder, CO. This is market research to identify potential vendors and determine the acquisition method. Responses are due June 15, 2026.
Purpose
This Sources Sought is a market research tool to identify potential and eligible business firms capable of providing two 2.3K Mechanical Cryocooler Systems. NIST will use the results to determine the method of acquisition and assess if any Small Business Set-aside opportunities exist. This is not a Request for Quotation or Proposal and does not commit the Government to an award.
Scope of Work
NIST seeks information on vendors that can provide two (2) complete mechanical cryocooler systems. Each system must include a compressor, hoses, and coldhead. Key performance requirements include:
- Base Temperature: 2.3K or colder.
- Cooling Power: 0.1W or greater at 4.2K.
- Compressor: Small, 120VAC-powered, air-cooled, with approximately 10 feet of helium line.
- Cold Head: Must match the standard Sumitomo RDK-101DL size and dimensions to fit into existing NIST-designed cryostats. The cryocoolers are intended for cooling electronics and optics.
Submission Requirements
Interested organizations should submit electronic capability statements, limited to four (4) pages or less, to deionne.jones@nist.gov. Submissions must include:
- Company name and manufacturer.
- Country of origin or manufacture.
- Spec/data sheets demonstrating experience.
- Typical lead time for delivery.
- Any other relevant information for developing minimum specifications. Proprietary information should be marked. Company sales brochures will not be considered.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- NAICS: 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Size Standard: 1,000 employees)
- Set-Aside: Small Business Set-aside opportunities will be considered if at least two qualified small businesses are identified. NIST is seeking responses from ALL responsible sources, including large and small businesses.
- Response Due: June 15, 2026, 8:00 PM UTC
- Published: June 4, 2026
Additional Notes
This notice is for planning purposes only. No solicitation is currently available, and the Government will not pay for information received. The results will inform future competitive or non-competitive procurements.