Scope
Reference
JNCA/TM155/25
Description
Envisaged scope of supply • Dry cryostat compatible with digital image correlation, conventional contact-based extensometery and point sensors (e.g., strain gauges). Some compromise in performance is permissible when conducting measurements using DIC setups requiring windows. Target temperature is as low as possible, minimum temperature requirement is 10 K (with DIC). • Temperature control to within +- 1 K. • Modularity and flexibility to support a range of diagnostics and potential future modifications. • Sufficiently large enough to accommodate standard sized testing in line with ASTM E8 and E606 • Must also be compatible with small scale materials testing (e.g., SSJ3 sample). • Robust high vacuum chamber with appropriate thermal radiation shielding. • Must be able to support a fully aligned rigid load string. • The load string should be flexible and allow the testing of complex geometry samples and subcomponents. • Diagnostics to help optimise the performance of the system. I.e. be flexible enough to optimise conduction pathways. • Quick sample changeover is highly desirable. Preferred testing throughput of at least 2 tests a day for tensile testing. • Must be able to support long term testing programmes in excess of 100 tests. • Robust and repeatable temperature control system and sensor interface with sample. • Must interface with a four columns Zwick SS-CF Kappa 100 kN load frame or similar. • Pull bar feed throughs with bellows. • Vacuum pumping solutions via suitable flanges. • Support a minimum vacuum of 1 x 10-6 mbar. • Ability to backfill vacuum using dry gas (e.g. from compressed N2 cylinder) • Windows and ports to facilitate and permit digital image correlation (DIC). • Sufficient access to permit DIC calibration. • Doors and/or sufficient access to permit sample exchange. • Be able to support uniform temperature testing. • Be able to actively monitor temperature at specific locations on the sample. • Be able to apply a thermal gradient across the specimen with 50 K difference from either end of the gauge length of the specimen (Stretch target). • Feedthroughs for in-chamber services (e.g., cryo pump, diagnostics, etc… ). • Easy to use control system. • Control system allows vacuum and cooling to automatically start via timer (to optimise test throughput). • Extensometer feed throughs and supports. • Heating solution mechanical supports (if required), access, and service feedthroughs. • Internal heating to speed up warm up. • Be able to operate for prolonged periods of time in order to support fatigue testing. • Cryogenic TMF testing capability is also desirable but not essential.
Contract 1. Cryomechanical test frame for materials qualification
Suppliers
Supplier not yet selected
Contract value
- £619,500 excluding VAT
- £743,400 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Earliest date the contract will be signed
5 February 2026
Contract dates (estimated)
- 5 February 2026 to 31 March 2026
- 1 month, 24 days
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 51000000 - Installation services (except software)
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Direct award
Direct award justification
Switching to direct award
For technical reasons there is only one possible supplier
Contracting authority
UK Atomic Energy Authority
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PLJV-1169-JTDD
Culham Science Centre
Oxfordshire
OX14 3DB
United Kingdom
Contact name: Tony Morris
Telephone: +12 35528822
Email: tony.morris@ukaea.uk
Website: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-atomic-energy-authority
Region: UKJ14 - Oxfordshire
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government