Liquid Nitrogen Supply to George Porter Building

The EPSRC National Epitaxy Facility (NEF) at the University of Sheffield supplies a wide range of III-V semiconductor materials grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) primarily to the UK academic research community. As part of its expansion plans, the facility is introducing a new double chamber cluster MBE system.

The University now requires an upgrade and extension of its existing infrastructure for the delivery of liquid nitrogen to this and another MBE laboratory within the Nanoscience's Complex in the University's North Campus. A closed loop liquid nitrogen delivery system with phase separators is required for continuous supply of liquid nitrogen, via compatible connectors, to the cryopanels and through other parts of MBE systems for cooling to cryogenic temperatures.

The system should be designed to minimize the vapourisation of the liquid nitrogen and to maintain pure liquid nitrogen flow at constant low pressure to the cryopanels preventing hot spots, or other effects that will interfere with the operation of the MBE system. The system must also be designed to maximise the recycling of liquid nitrogen and the safe venting of exhasut gas.

The system must be designed for safe, efficient and long lasting operation and have provision for automated control, minimal user maintenance needs and be flexible for upgrade paths if additional machines require connection. The system must be fully installed in accordance with all regulations, both University and statutory, and we require delivery and installation within a period of no more than 3 months from placement of purchase order. Tendering companies may conduct a site assessment of options for installing the system on request and precise details of the design configuration are a requirement of the tender process.