61--MILES CITY CONVERTER THYRISTOR ASSEMBLIES

The Department of Energy, Western Area Power Administration, Upper Great Plains Region, has issued a firm fixed-price, sole-source award under solicitation 89503426QWA001161 for the procurement of single and double stack thyristor assemblies. These components are designated as direct replacements for the HVDC valve modules at the Miles City HVDC Converter Station in Montana. Due to the unique technical requirements and the fact that the original manufacturer, GE, is no longer in the business, the procurement was restricted to Southern States as the sole compatible manufacturer under FAR 12.102(a). The assemblies must meet rigorous technical specifications, including 5000V/5000A ratings, a 125mm size with a 1.4 inch ceramic package thickness, and 14 inch gate leads to ensure compatibility with existing heatsink profiles and forced-air cooling infrastructure. Critical performance thresholds include blocking stability under 4000Vac peak for at least six hours at 105 to 110 degrees Celsius, a di/dt of at least 110 A/microsec, and a turn-off time of 400 microseconds or less. Compliance is verified through quantitative performance thresholds and brand authenticity rather than a competitive evaluation process.