Request for Information (RFI) - Mid‑energy electron beam (eBeam) systems

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, operating under the U.S. Department of Energy, is issuing a Request for Information to gather technical details from suppliers regarding mid-energy electron beam systems designed for medical device sterilization. The intended system must be self-shielded, capable of operating in unrestricted areas, and deployable at end-of-line with optional in-line functionality for terminal and adjunctive sterilization of products in their primary packaging. Key technical specifications include a 2 MeV electron accelerator with a variable energy range, beam power between 2 and 10 kW, a 1-meter-wide scan horn, and the ability to deliver a minimum dose of 15 kGy to products with a density of 0.1 g/cm³. The system must support continuous conveyance via standard conveyor or tray systems and include a robust HMI/PLC control platform with full data logging, audit trails, user-access control, and alarm/interlock architecture to ensure process integrity and regulatory compliance. Vendor responses are required to include product brochures, layout drawings, utility requirements, acceptance test plan outlines, lists of applicable standards such as ISO and ASTM practices for radiation processing, and radiation verification documentation for self-shielded units in this energy range. Responses must also indicate Small Business Status, quality program certifications, EMC compliance, safety interlocks, and SIL controls. Submission materials must be provided in a searchable PDF format, not exceeding 25 pages for narrative content, with additional Excel files permitted for pricing tables and spares lists. A formal requirements compliance matrix detailing each requirement as Yes/No/Notes/Exceptions is mandatory. Respondents are asked to provide estimated lead times from contract award to Factory Acceptance Test and from FAT completion to Site Acceptance Test at a U.S. customer location, along with details on project phases, phase-gate approvals, warranty terms, and shipping compatibility with standard or high-cube containers. Vendor offerings must demonstrate support for Installation, Operational, and Process Qualifications to enable regulatory engagement for sterilization validation. Training for operators, maintenance personnel, radiation safety, and process validation is expected. All proprietary information must be clearly labeled as PROPRIETARY. This RFI is purely informational and does not bind the government to a future contract; responses are due by June 1, 2026, to Randy Dykes at PNNL in Richland, Washington. The NAICS code for this solicitation is 334419, and no set-aside provisions apply. A subsequent Request for