Scope
Description
UKNNL is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified and experienced contractors to support the assembly, installation verification, and inactive commissioning of a new modular experimental rig at the Preston facility.
The rig comprises a modular, three-storey structure incorporating multiple process and utility services. The appointed contractor will be responsible for mechanical assembly, installation checks, and inactive commissioning (without uranics) to enable active commissioning (with uranics) by others.
2. Scope of Work
The contractor will be expected to undertake, as a minimum:
Mechanical Assembly
• Offloading, positioning, and installation of prefabricated rig modules
• Mechanical assembly and integration of modules to form the complete structure
• Installation of access platforms, supports, and ancillary equipment
• Alignment, fixing, and structural integrity checks
Interface & Service Readiness
• Preparation and verification of interfaces for:
o Gas services
o Extraction/ventilation
o Fluids
o Electrical supplies
• Coordination with service installation contractors
• Ensuring connection points are accessible, correctly labelled, and compliant with drawings/specifications
Electrical, Controls and Instrumentation:
• Cross module connections
• Final install
• Connection to Pilot Plant electrical distribution network
1. Project Overview
UKNNL is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified and experienced contractors to support the assembly, installation verification, and inactive commissioning of a new modular experimental rig at the Preston facility.
The rig comprises a modular, three-storey structure incorporating multiple process and utility services. The appointed contractor will be responsible for mechanical assembly, installation checks, and inactive commissioning (without uranics) to enable active commissioning (with uranics) by others.
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2. Scope of Work
The contractor will be expected to undertake, as a minimum:
Mechanical Assembly
• Offloading, positioning, and installation of prefabricated rig modules
• Mechanical assembly and integration of modules to form the complete structure
• Installation of access platforms, supports, and ancillary equipment
• Alignment, fixing, and structural integrity checks
Interface & Service Readiness
• Preparation and verification of interfaces for:
o Gas services
o Extraction/ventilation
o Fluids
o Electrical supplies
• Coordination with service installation contractors
• Ensuring connection points are accessible, correctly labelled, and compliant with drawings/specifications
Electrical, Controls and Instrumentation:
• Cross module connections
• Final install
• Connection to Pilot Plant electrical distribution network
Installation Verification
• Completion of installation checks against drawings and specifications
• QA/QC inspections and documentation
• Identification and resolution of defects or non-conformances
• As-built documentation and redlining
Inactive Commissioning
• Mechanical completion checks
• Pressure/leak testing (where applicable)
• Functional checks (non-energised / non-process)
• Safety and compliance verification
• Handover documentation and commissioning packs
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3. Contractor Requirements
Interested parties should demonstrate:
• Experience assembling modular or multi-storey industrial/process rigs or plant
• Experience working with multi-disciplinary service interfaces (gas, fluids, extraction, electrical)
• Commissioning and mechanical completion experience
• Strong health, safety, and quality management systems to comply with CDM regulations
• Ability to work within an operational facility environment
• Relevant certifications and competencies
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4. Deliverables
The appointed contractor will be expected to provide:
• Method statements and risk assessments
• Installation and commissioning plans
• Inspection and test records
• Mechanical completion dossiers
• As-built documentation
• Handover pack
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5. Programme (Indicative)
• Site readiness: June 2026
• Assembly period: 3 months
• Handover to active commissioning: September 2026
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 June 2026 to 30 September 2026
- 4 months
Main procurement category
Works
CPV classifications
- 45000000 - Construction work
- 51000000 - Installation services (except software)
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
20 February 2026
Engagement process description
This exercise is an Expression of interest and is part of a pre-tender market consultation, it does not constitute a formal procurement process. The purpose of this exercise is to assess the capabilities within current markets to delivery this service.
Company Name :United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory
Delivery address: Springfields, Salwick, Preston, Lancashire.
PR4 0XJ
Contact :Procurement@uknnl.com
Opportunity to attend site for pre-tender engagement will be provided depending on EOI received
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Contracting authority
UNITED KINGDOM NATIONAL NUCLEAR LABORATORY LIMITED
- Companies House: 03857752
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PVXT-8784-YGNV
Chadwick House Warrington Road
Warrington
WA3 6AE
United Kingdom
Email: procurement@uknnl.com
Website: http://www.uknnl.com
Region: UKD61 - Warrington
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government