RFI: USAFA LIQUID NITROGEN PLANT/GENERATOR

This is a Sources Sough Notice only. This is not a request for proposal (RFP), request for quotation (RFQ), or an invitation for bids (IFB) and does not constitute a commitment by the Government to issue a solicitation, nor does it restrict the Government to a particular acquisition approach.

1. BACKGROUND

The 10th Contracting Squadron at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) is conducting market research to identify capable sources to provide two (2) Liquid Nitrogen Plants or Generators. This equipment will support the USAFA Chemistry Department (DFCH) and several dependent departments (including Physics, Aeronautics, and Chemistry Research).

2. SALIENT CHARACTERISTICS / MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

At a minimum, the interested Vendor must demonstrate their capability of supplying a (quantity of 2)  Liquid Nitrogen Plant or Generator that meets or exceeds the following salient characteristics/specifications:

• Production Capacity: each system must produce at least 60 liters of liquid nitrogen per day.
• Storage Capacity: Must have an integrated Dewar capacity of at least 210 liters.
• Footprint Restrictions: Overall footprint must not exceed 6.5 ft. x 6 ft.
• Altitude Operation: Must be designed for high-altitude operation and be fully capable of operating at an altitude of 7,500 ft.
• Gas Separation & Purity: Must include an integrated filter bank assembly to separate nitrogen from ambient air and produce a minimum of 98% pure nitrogen. The filter bank assembly must be easy and affordable to maintain.
• Maintenance & Support:
  • The local operator must be able to perform routine maintenance on-site.
  • Must include a comprehensive liquid nitrogen plant equipment service kit, tools, key spare parts, and a manual for installation and maintenance.
• Safety & Automation:
  • Must include an automatic liquid nitrogen level indicator.
  • Must automatically enter standby mode when the product dewar is full.
• Extraction & Transfer: Must include a cryogenically insulated extraction line and valve designed for low loss of liquid nitrogen during transfer.
• Compressor: Must include an air-cooled helium compressor.
• Mounting: Must have a floor stand for the nitrogen generator assembly.
• Condition: Equipment must be brand new (no refurbished or used equipment).
• Warranty: Must include a comprehensive warranty on all parts and workmanship.
• Training and Installation: Must include on-site training and installation.
• Services & Support: Must provide in-state (e.g., Colorado) application support.

3. CAPABILITY STATEMENT SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

Interested parties that possess the capabilities to meet the above requirements are invited to submit a Capability Statement. The Capability Statement must include the following information:

1. Company Profile:

• Company Name
• Address
• Point of Contact (Name, Title, Phone, Email)
• CAGE Code and UEI Number
• SAM Registration Expiration Date

       2. Business Size/Socioeconomic Status: Identify your business size under NAICS 334516 (e.g., Large Business, Small Business, 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB).

       3.Technical Capability: A brief description of your company's ability to provide a Supercontinuum Laser Source that meets or exceeds all the salient characteristics listed in Section 2. Please include product spec sheets, drawings, or brochures if available.

       4. Delivery/Lead Time: Estimated delivery time after receipt of an order.

       5. Existing Contracts: Provide contract numbers for any existing government-wide acquisition contracts (GWACs), GSA Multiple Award Schedules (MAS), or other contract vehicles your company currently holds that include this product.

4. DEADLINE AND POINT OF CONTACT

Responses are due no later than 9:00 Am Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) on July 19, 2026.

Responses must be submitted electronically via email to:

• Contracting Officer: Ms. Nathalieb Zepeda
• Email: Nathalieb.Zepeda@us.af.mil

Disclaimer: This Sources Sought Notice is for informational and planning purposes only and is not to be construed as a commitment by the Government. The Government will not pay for any information or administrative costs incurred in response to this notice. Respondents will not be notified of the results of any government assessments.