Vacuum Pump Tritium Testing

Buyer
UK Atomic Energy Authority
Value
£400,000
Closes
16 November 2026
Where
Oxfordshire, the South East
Type
Open tender

In plain English

The UK Atomic Energy Authority wants a specialist organisation to design, build, and operate a test rig that can safely handle tritium (a radioactive material) and mimic how their vacuum treatment system works in real conditions. After testing, they also need detailed examination of the materials used, especially a plastic called PTFE, to see how tritium affects them.

What the buyer wants

• Design and manufacture a tritium-compatible test rig that replicates the Vacuum and Impurity Treatment System (VAC-ITS) operating conditions • Commission and operate the test rig at your licensed facility • Perform post-operation examination and analysis of materials exposed to tritium, with focus on PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene plastic) performance and degradation

Likely requirements

Our reading of the notice. Always check the tender documents.

This contract will almost certainly disqualify most small businesses because it requires a licensed nuclear facility with tritium handling authorization, specialized nuclear engineering expertise, and the ability to operate under strict UK nuclear regulation, all of which are beyond the reach of typical tradespeople and small service providers.

How to bid

This is an open tender: any eligible business can respond directly to the buyer by the deadline, with no framework membership needed.

How to write a tender response

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