STEM,FLUID VALVE
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVSUP.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT.NAVSUP WSS MECHANICSBURG.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT MECH · Response deadline: Fri, 06 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The Navy is soliciting bids for a STEM, FLUID VALVE—a component used in fluid control systems aboard naval vessels or weapon systems. This falls under standard supply-class item 4820 (Valves, Nonpowered), which covers manually operated and automatic valves for piping systems. The Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Weapon Systems Support activity in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania handles procurement for this requirement.
Fluid valves in this classification typically regulate, direct, or control the flow of liquids, gases, or slurries in mechanical systems. Common applications include shipboard piping, hydraulic systems, cooling systems, and fuel transfer lines. The "STEM" designation likely refers to the valve stem—the component that connects the handle to the valve disc or plug mechanism.
Small businesses in custom metal valve manufacturing should evaluate this opportunity carefully, even though no formal set-aside applies.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of the Navy, NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support, Mechanicsburg |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | N0010426QNC98 |
| NAICS | 332919 |
| Set-aside | None (full and open competition) |
| Response deadline | November 6, 2026 at 4:30 PM EDT |
| Place of performance | See the solicitation |
Who can bid
This is a full and open competition with no set-aside restriction. Any responsible offeror—large or small business—may submit a bid. However, the NAICS code 332919 (Other Metal Valve and Pipe Fitting Manufacturing) carries a 500-employee size standard, meaning businesses at or below this threshold qualify as "small" for this procurement and may pursue subcontracting or partnership advantages.
To be competitive, bidders typically need:
- ISO 9001 quality certification or equivalent quality management systems
- Experience manufacturing to military specifications (MIL-SPEC) or defense standards
- Capacity to meet Navy Unique Item Identifier (UII) and item unique identification (IUID) requirements for traceability
- Demonstrated ability to deliver valves meeting pressure, temperature, and material specifications for marine environments
Manufacturers already in the NAVSUP supply chain or holding existing National Stock Numbers (NSNs) for similar valve types may have competitive advantages. First-time Navy suppliers should verify their SAM.gov registration, DUNS/UEI status, and CAGE code are current.
How to put together a competitive bid
For an unrestricted valve supply solicitation, focus on these elements:
Technical compliance: Obtain the full specification revision cited in the solicitation. Valve bids are frequently rejected for minor dimensional, material, or performance deviations. Confirm acceptable materials (bronze, stainless steel, monel, etc.), pressure ratings, end connections, and operating temperature ranges exactly match requirements.
Quality submissions: Prepare your Quality Assurance Plan and any required first article test documentation. NAVSUP WSS typically requires material certifications, test reports, and dimensional inspection records.
Past performance: Document comparable valve deliveries to DOD or maritime customers, including quantities, contract values, and delivery performance. Reference similar NSN items if available.
Pricing strategy: Analyze historical prices for this NSN or comparable valves through FPDS or GSA CALC+ tools. Consider material cost volatility—copper and nickel alloys common in marine valves fluctuate significantly. Build contingency for Davis-Bacon or Service Contract Act applicability if repair services are included; for supply-only, evaluate Trade Agreements Act compliance for any foreign-sourced components.
Small business positioning: Without a set-aside, small businesses should emphasize agility, direct engineering support, and reduced administrative overhead compared to large OEMs. Consider teaming with a larger manufacturer as a subcontractor if you lack full fabrication capacity.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation at SAM.gov using solicitation number N0010426QNC98 to obtain technical specifications, delivery requirements, and clauses. The response deadline is November 6, 2026 at 4:30 PM EDT—allow ample time for any first article or technical questions requiring Navy clarification, as responses may take 10-15 business days.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →