Refractory Probe Design and Fabrication

The contract seeks the design and fabrication of a specialized refractory probe engineered to operate under the extreme thermal and chemical conditions of an electric arc furnace while reliably enabling Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy for real-time elemental analysis. The probe must incorporate advanced refractory materials capable of resisting high temperatures, molten metal splatter, and aggressive slag environments, with precise mechanical and thermal integration to maintain structural integrity and optical alignment over prolonged use. Material selection must balance durability, thermal stability, and laser transmission properties, demanding rigorous testing and validation to ensure performance under industrial-scale EAF operations. The optical components must be seamlessly integrated into the probe structure without compromising the refractory barrier, requiring innovative sealing and cooling techniques to protect sensitive laser delivery and collection systems. The successful bidder will be responsible for end-to-end development, including prototyping, performance validation under simulated conditions, and delivery of a finalized unit suitable for deployment in a Canadian government-operated facility. Submissions are due by August 11, 2026, and the work falls under NAICS code 325998 for other chemical product and preparation manufacturing, with performance expected to occur within Canada under the oversight of the Department of Natural Resources.