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36--CYLINDER ASSY,CRYOG

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Fri, 30 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

DLA Aviation Richmond is seeking a vendor to provide a cylinder assembly for cryogenic applications. This falls within the broader category of aircraft and engine parts, accessories, and components. Cryogenic cylinder assemblies are specialized pressure vessels designed to contain gases at extremely low temperatures, typically used in aircraft systems, ground support equipment, or related aerospace applications. DLA Aviation serves as the primary procurement arm for the Department of Defense's aviation spare parts and material needs.

The specific technical requirements for this cylinder assembly—including dimensions, materials, pressure ratings, testing standards, and any military or aviation specifications—see the solicitation. DLA Aviation purchases frequently must meet strict quality and traceability standards given their use in defense aviation systems.

Key facts

Who can bid

This opportunity is set aside exclusively for small businesses under NAICS 333310. This code covers "Commercial and Service Industry Machinery Manufacturing," which in this context relates to aircraft and engine parts and accessories.

To qualify, your business must:

• Be certified as small under SBA size standards for NAICS 333310
• Be registered in SAM.gov with active status
• Hold any required certifications for government contracting

Manufacturers with experience in aerospace or defense components may have advantages given the technical nature of cryogenic equipment. Firms with AS9100 quality management certification or experience with military specifications (MIL-SPEC) should highlight this capability.

How to put together a competitive bid

For DLA Aviation combined synopsis/solicitations of this type, consider these specifics:

Technical compliance first. Cryogenic assemblies involve critical safety and performance parameters. Review the solicitation for exact material specifications, testing requirements, and any reference documents such as military standards or FAA technical standard orders. Missing even one technical requirement typically results in rejection.

Understand DLA's quality expectations. Defense aviation parts often require:

• Certificates of conformance
• Material traceability documentation
• Inspection and test reports
• Compliance with counterfeit parts avoidance requirements (DFARS 252.246-7007)

Price competitively but realistically. DLA solicitations use lowest-price technically acceptable (LPTA) or similar evaluation methods for standard items. Underestimating costs for specialized cryogenic fabrication, testing, or certification (such as hydrostatic or helium leak testing) can create losses.

Confirm your supply chain. Cryogenic-grade materials and specialized welding or brazing processes may have limited domestic sources. Verify lead times and source availability before committing to delivery schedules.

Leverage small-business status. As a total small business set-aside, you compete only against other qualified small businesses—not large defense primes. Highlight any small-business subcontracting plans or partnership history if relevant.

Next steps

1. Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727T1782 to obtain complete specifications, terms, and instructions for offer submission.

2. Note the deadline: Responses are due October 30, 2026—approximately eight days from the posted date of October 22, 2026. This compressed timeline is common for DLA combined synopsis/solicitations for established stock items; verify whether this is a firm deadline or if amendments may extend it.

3. Validate SAM.gov registration immediately if not current, as inactive registration will disqualify your offer.

4. See the solicitation for complete delivery requirements, inspection terms, and any required samples or first article testing.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →