Notice of Intent to Award to Sole Source -Stirling VAULT100 Freezer

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) intends to award a sole source, firm fixed price contract to GOVERNMENT SCIENTIFIC SOURCE INC.

This contract action is for commercial products or commercial services for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 12.102(a). The North American Industry Classification System code for this procurement is 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing. Interested persons may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement or submit proposals.

This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals; however, all responses received within fifteen (15) days of the issuance of this notice will be considered by the government. A determination by the government not to compete this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Any quotation/response should be emailed to the contract specialist Ruben Reyes at qmz3@cdc.gov by 12:00PM, July 15, 2026.

Brand Name Requirement: The Government requires the Stirling Ultracold VAULT100 freezer, available through Government Scientific Source, Inc. (GSS), to meet the laboratory's operational, storage, and performance requirements for preservation of temperature-sensitive biological materials and research samples. The required equipment must provide an adjustable operating temperature range suitable for ultra-low temperature specimen preservation, precise temperature control, and sufficient storage capacity to support laboratory operations and long-term sample retention.

The Stirling Ultracold VAULT100 freezer provides an adjustable operating range from -100 C to -20 C in 1 C increments, allowing precise temperature control necessary for long-term storage of temperature-sensitive biological materials and research samples. The VAULT100 also provides a 795-liter storage capacity capable of accommodating up to 600 standard 2-inch storage boxes while maintaining temperature uniformity at -80 C across multiple positions, supporting sample integrity throughout the chamber.

In addition, the freezer includes features required for laboratory operations and compliance, including a touchscreen graphical user interface, ACT certification, 120 240 VAC compatibility, and insulated inner doors with magnetic latches designed to minimize temperature fluctuation during access events. The Government's requirement for the identified brand name is based on the laboratory's minimum technical and operational needs as documented in the supporting acquisition file. Any interested source may submit information demonstrating its capability to meet the Government's minimum requirements identified in this notice. Responses received will be evaluated to determine whether a competitive procurement is appropriate.