Framework Agreement for Corrosion Testing Services - STEP Programme

Organisations are invited to join a framework agreement to provide corrosion testing services for the UK Fusion Energy (UKFE) STEP programme over two years. This is an opportunity for specialist corrosion testing providers to secure call-off contracts for testing high-temperature coolants (light and heavy water, supercritical CO2, helium), carrier gases, and tritium breeding materials (lithium ceramics and liquid metals) against STEP coolant-facing alloys. The framework streamlines procurement and contract management, reduces tender exercises, ensures consistent quality, and accelerates delivery of testing requirements through simplified call-off procedures. Only organisations capable of undertaking testing directly are eligible. The testing will generate mechanistic understanding of corrosion interactions, quantify corrosion effects, identify mitigation strategies, and support extended component service life. The procurement promotes innovation, supports a diverse supplier base including SMEs, and ensures compliance with the Procurement Act 2023 through transparent and competitive processes. Interested suppliers should visit the eSourcing portal for full details and to submit responses.