Scope
Reference
UKRI-5543
Description
This requirement is for a new cryoplant, which has the capacity rated at 2kW at 4K (equivalent to 350W at 2K.) It is to have the capability to provide cooling at 2K, 4K and 20K to multiple users. This capability has been specified to enable UKRI-STFC to meet requirements identified by all initial users and is scalable to meet varying demand.
This is to expand UKRI-STFCs existing expertise in cryogenics and experience in running a cryoplant as a facility user.
Total value (estimated)
- £20,000,000 excluding VAT
- £24,000,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 20 July 2026 to 21 June 2027
- 11 months, 2 days
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 42511200 - Machinery for liquefying air or other gases
- 42000000 - Industrial machinery
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
28 January 2026
Engagement process description
The purpose of this Preliminary Market Engagement Notice is to inform the market that UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is exploring the future procurement of a new cryoplant for the National Cryogenic Facility.
UKRI has already undertaken initial, non-binding discussions with a small number of suppliers with relevant specialist expertise to inform early project thinking. This Preliminary Market Engagement Notice is intended to broaden engagement across the market, validate assumptions, and ensure that any future procurement is informed by a wide range of potential delivery approaches, commercial models, and technical capabilities. Participation in this early engagement does not confer any advantage or preference in any future procurement process.
UKRI will be undertaking a Supplier Engagement Session via Teams at 14:00hours on Wednesday 28th January 2026. If you would like to express your organisations interest in this event, please send the following information to STFCProcurement@ukri.org no later than Monday 26th January 2026:
- Name of organisation
- Names and email address of those attending the session
Please not, we would limit the number of attendees to 3 per organisation.
Please note that this Preliminary Market Engagement Notice does not constitute a commitment by UKRI to commence a procurement or to award any contract. Any future procurement activity will be subject to internal approvals, including business case approval by the relevant UK Government departments. All future tender documentation, should a procurement proceed, will be made available via UKRI's e-sourcing portal, and potential bidders will be required to register on that portal to access further information.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
20 April 2026
Contracting authority
UK Research & Innovation (UKRI)
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PDQJ-7126-JDHG
Polaris House
Swindon, Wiltshire
SN2 1FL
United Kingdom
Region: UKK14 - Swindon
Organisation type: Public authority - central government