How to bid on Cooling System Check Valve Replacement for the Department of Energy

What the Department of Energy is buying

The Department of Energy (DOE) is looking for qualified vendors to design, manufacture, test, and deliver four 20-inch, 300-lb tilting-disc check valves for the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). These valves are critical safety components and must meet strict nuclear standards, including ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section III, Division 1, Class 1.

The current valves are aging and experiencing increased failure rates, necessitating replacement to ensure reliable reactor operation. This is an opportunity for specialized manufacturers to provide essential safety-related components for a national laboratory.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The deadline to submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) is August 28, 2026. Submissions must be received by 1:59 AM ET on this date.

This EOI is the first step in identifying qualified vendors. The DOE will use responses to develop a formal solicitation list. Only selected vendors, as determined by Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC (BEA), will be invited to participate in a future Request for Proposal (RFP) process for award consideration.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms with demonstrated expertise in designing, manufacturing, and testing nuclear-grade check valves. Vendors should have experience with large-diameter tilting disc valves, hydraulic dashpot systems, and equipment compliant with ASME Section III standards.

Companies with strong quality programs, nuclear safety compliance, and testing capabilities for hydrostatic, nondestructive, and performance testing are well-suited. This is a highly specialized requirement within the healthcare category, focusing on critical infrastructure for nuclear energy facilities.

How to respond

To respond, you need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) by the deadline. Your EOI should include your company name and point of contact, a description of your capabilities for designing and manufacturing nuclear-grade check valves, and demonstrated experience with large-diameter tilting disc valves, dashpot systems, and ASME Section III equipment.

You must also provide information on your certifications, quality program documentation, nuclear safety compliance, and test capabilities. Include your lead times and production capacity, ability to supply all required drawings and documentation, NAICS and business size classification, and any proposed equivalent designs. Confirm your ability to comply with INL data control requirements and provide a high-level cost estimation for four check valves. Submit your EOI to [email protected].

Some documents, including INL Specification SPC-71414 (Rev. 0) and referenced drawings, contain export-controlled information. Access is restricted to verified U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. To obtain these documents, contact Chase Egbert at [email protected] to confirm eligibility. You can still submit an EOI without these documents, but reviewing them may help you fully understand the technical scope.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Clearly articulate your firm's specific experience with nuclear-grade components and large-scale valve systems. Provide concrete examples of past projects that demonstrate your ability to meet stringent design and testing requirements.

Highlight your quality assurance program and any relevant certifications that underscore your commitment to nuclear safety and compliance. Since this is an EOI, focus on showcasing your core competencies and capacity to handle a project of this complexity. Even a high-level cost estimate should reflect a realistic understanding of the specialized nature of the work.

If you propose equivalent designs, ensure they are thoroughly described and clearly demonstrate how they meet or exceed the specified performance and safety criteria. Pay close attention to the data control requirements mentioned and confirm your ability to comply with them.