Sole Source for two (2) weeks On-Site Equipment Training with RHK Technology, Inc. for the Ultra High Vacuum (UHV) RHK 3500 Beetle System

Background
The contract is issued by the DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory, which focuses on advancing technology and capabilities for the U.S. Army. The goal of this contract is to provide specialized on-site training for the Ultra High Vacuum (UHV) RHK 3500 Beetle System, ensuring that personnel are equipped with the necessary skills to operate and maintain this advanced equipment effectively.

Work Details
The contractor is required to conduct two (2) on-site training sessions, each lasting approximately one week (40 hours), totaling around 80 hours of training. The first session will commence after the issuance of the purchase order, while the second session will occur approximately two months later. Training topics must include:
1. Creating and maintaining vacuum inside the chamber at an ultra-high level (~10 -12 Torr).
2. Placing and removing samples through load-locked chambers.
3. Laser and optics alignment to image samples on SEM gun.
4. Alignment of AFM tip on sample mapping area and data acquisition in “tapping” and “contact modes.”
5. Replacement of AFM head with STM tripod head, alignment over imaging area of the sample, and tunneling current data acquisition.
6. Acquisition of STM and AFM data with temperature variation.
7. Processing data using embedded software and converting data/images into commonly used formats (e.g., Excel for data, jpg, png, svg).
8. Replacing samples in the UHV AFM, STM, SEM chamber through load-locked chambers.
9. Instructions for proper maintenance of the system.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for this contract is from May 5, 2025, through July 5, 2025.

Place of Performance
The services will be performed at DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory, located at 6375 Johnson Road, Bldg. 321, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005.