6515--WLR Leica DM2700 P for TL Specifically configured for Asbestos Analysis (VA-25-00098025)

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides clarifications and answers to vendor questions regarding Solicitation Number 36C25226Q0295 for a Leica DM2700 P microscope specifically configured for Asbestos Analysis.

• Brand Name vs. Brand Name or Equal: The VA will accept brandnameorequal products if they meet all salient characteristics.
• Substitutions: Substitutions for optical components are allowed if they meet or exceed listed specifications and are appropriate for the NIOSH 9002 method.
• Digital Imaging/Software: The VA does not require digital imaging, software, or documentation tools beyond the Basic Docu Tube POL BDTP 25, nor does it require image capture, measurement software, or reporting tools for asbestos analysis.
• Installation & Training: On-site installation is not required if the microscope is fully assembled. User training is not required, though basic familiarization with components would be useful.
• Compliance Documentation: Proof of compliance with NIOSH 9002 and EPA 600/R93 is to be provided at delivery. Factory calibration certification with a NIST-traceable micrometer scale is required.
• Delivery: Standard 30-day delivery after award is required. Packaging should include hazard warnings due to refractive index liquids. The delivery address is on page 5 of the original solicitation.
• Award Type: The procurement will be awarded as a firm-fixed-price purchase order.
• Warranty: No warranty period or extended service agreements are required.

This Q&A document clarifies requirements regarding product equivalency, installation, training, and documentation, impacting how vendors should prepare their quotes and submissions. The response date remains April 27, 2026, 8:00 am CENTRAL TIME.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for the procurement of a Leica DM2700 P microscope, specifically configured for Asbestos Analysis. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) intends to issue this solicitation around April 27, 2026.

• Procurement of a Leica DM2700 P microscope.

• The equipment must be "Brand Name or Equal" and specifically configured for Asbestos Analysis.

• Not specified in the provided text.

• Response Date/Time/Zone: April 27, 2026, 8:00 am CENTRAL TIME, CHICAGO, USA.

• The contracting office ZIP code is 53214-1476.

• This procurement is a Total Small Business Set-Aside.

• Product Service Code (PSC): 6515

• North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code: 541380 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology))

• Contracting Office Address: Department of Veterans Affairs, 36C252, 115 South 84th Street, Suite 101, Milwaukee WI 53214-1476.

• The solicitation number is 36C25226Q0295.

Sources Sought Notice

This notice is for market research purposes to determine the interest and capability of potential contractors (both small and other than small businesses, including VIP-Verified Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)) for the procurement of a Leica DM2700 P microscope specifically configured for Asbestos Analysis. This is not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded from this notice.

The government is seeking vendors capable of fulfilling the requirement for a Leica DM2700 P microscope or an equal product. Key specifications include:

• Polarized light microscope (PLM) for transmitted light asbestos analysis.
• Trinocular optical head compatible with digital imaging.
• Strain-free, infinity-corrected optics (4x–40x) with centerable objectives.
• Polarizer and analyzer with 360-degree rotation.
• Compensator slot for first-order red (λ) plates.
• Centerable substage condenser for Köhler illumination.
• Transmitted light LED or halogen illumination source.
• Mechanical stage with smooth X–Y travel and secure slide retention.
• Precise coarse and fine focus controls.
• Low-internal-strain optical components for calibration and alignment.

Not applicable, as this is a Sources Sought Notice.

Interested parties should submit information regarding their qualifications, capabilities, experience, business size, and socioeconomic status. A memo or correspondence from the manufacturer authorizing distribution of their products is also required. Submissions should be emailed to Vernise L. Newton at vernise.newton@va.gov.

Market research is being conducted to determine interest from Other than Small Businesses and/or Small Businesses, including VIP-Verified VOSB or SDVOSB. VOSBs and SDVOSBs must be registered and verified in VIP for set-aside consideration.

Information must be received no later than 03-13-2026 at 8:00 am Central Time.

Equipment delivery is to Captain James A. Lovell (FHCC), 3001 Green Bay Rd., North Chicago, IL 60064.

This is strictly for market research. The government will not pay for any materials provided, and submissions will not be returned.