6640--678 - FORMULATRIX LIQUID HANDLER
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), specifically the Network Contracting Office 22 (36C262), is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought to identify qualified sources capable of providing an automated liquid handling system. This system is intended for the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System in Tucson, AZ. This is for planning purposes only and is not a solicitation. Responses are due by May 22, 2026.
Scope of Work
The VA requires an automated liquid handling system, specifically the FLO i8 V3 Positive Displacement Instrument (Model 839079A) and Positive Displacement Pipette Tips (Model 838451A). The system will automate the aliquoting of biospecimens from source tubes into microplates for research distribution. Key requirements and salient characteristics include:
- High Throughput: Capable of processing 500-1,000 cases per batch.
- Precise Pipetting: Volume capability from 0.5 µL to 1,000 µL, non-contact dispensing to 0.2 µL, and precision CV < 5% at 0.5 µL.
- Advanced Features: Eight independent pipetting channels, specialized positive displacement tips, liquid level and well-bottom sensing, integrated camera/vision verification, independent reach for plates/wells/tubes, and reduction of consumable waste.
- Usability & Integration: User-friendly software, intuitive programming, real-time run monitoring with safety interlocks, and an external API for system integration.
- Services: On-site installation and user training are required, along with standard warranties.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage for NAICS 334516, size standard 1,000 employees)
- Response Due: Friday, May 22, 2026, by 10:00 AM PT Local
- Published: May 18, 2026
Information Requested
Interested parties should provide:
- A capabilities statement detailing how they meet or cannot meet the salient characteristics.
- Feedback or suggestions on the salient characteristics.
- Business size status (e.g., SDVOSB, VOSB, HUBZone, WOSB, Large Business) and confirmation of small business status under NAICS 334516.
- Confirmation of being a manufacturer, authorized distributor, or solution provider.
- Details on subcontracting limitations, COTS status, Buy American Act compliance, lead times, estimated lifespan, FDA clearance, and leasing options.
- Information on existing Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) or other government contracts.
- General pricing information (for market research only).
- SAM.gov Unique Entity ID/Cage Code.
Additional Notes
This RFI is solely for information and planning purposes and does not constitute a solicitation. Responses are not offers and cannot be accepted to form a binding contract. The Government will use responses to make appropriate acquisition decisions, and further RFIs or solicitations may be published later.