Request for Information Modular Hot Cell Design and Fabrication

The Department of Energy‑funded Radioisotope Processing Facility (RPF) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory seeks industry interest and capability statements for the design, fabrication, shipment, and installation of modular hot cells (MHCs). The effort includes one Transloading MHC as a base unit, with options for six additional Transloading units and seven Processing units. Deliverables span conceptual and detailed design packages, shielding analyses, fabrication and QA plans, shipping/handling strategies, on‑site installation procedures, testing, commissioning, and as‑built documentation. The MHCs must meet stringent radiological confinement, shielding (≈14 in carbon steel or equivalent), dose‑rate limits (≤0.5 mrem/hr), maintainability, and corrosion‑resistant material requirements. Fabrication is to be performed off‑site, with shipment to ORNL and installation using air‑skate systems in a high‑bay equipped with a 30‑ton crane. The RFI is a market‑research step; a formal competitive Basic Ordering Agreement is anticipated in late 2027, with construction completion targeted for 2034. • Primary need: design and fabricate a nuclear‑grade hot‑cell system for handling irradiated HFIR targets. • Scope: conceptual & detailed engineering, shielding analysis, fabrication specifications, QA, logistics, installation, testing, and lifecycle support. • Options: up to 6 additional transloading and 7 processing hot cells. • Delivery: one fully built transloading hot cell (with optional follow‑on units) to be shipped and installed at ORNL. • Technical constraints: internal dimensions ~6 ft × 6 ft × 8 ft, telemanipulator ports, shielding dose limits, negative‑pressure operation, corrosion‑resistant liners (Inconel, PVDF‑coated steel, etc.). • Timeline: RFI responses due Oct 23 2026; formal RFP expected late 2027; installation to begin after award, with facility completion by 2034.