Aqualab TDL 2 or equivalent (x2 instruments)
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 U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), on behalf of its Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS), is conducting a market survey through this Sources Sought Notice (SSN) to identify qualified small business sources capable of providing two Aqualab TDL 2, or equivalent, water activity meters. These instruments are required for microbiology laboratories in Irvine, CA, and Jamaica, NY. This is not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded from this announcement. Capability statements are due by January 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM Central Time.
Scope of Work
The FDA requires two newly manufactured Aqualab TDL 2, or equivalent, water activity meters. Key features include a tunable diode laser, benchtop design (approx. 11" L x 8" W x 6" H), a water activity measurement range of 0.0000 to 1.0000 aw (with accuracy of ±0.0050 aw and repeatability of 0.0010 aw), and a temperature reading range of 15°C to 50°C. Instruments must include start-up supplies and be compatible with 120V, 60 Hz power. Delivery is required within 90 days of contract award, with one unit each to Irvine, CA, and Jamaica, NY. A 12-month warranty for parts and labor is mandatory, and service must be performed by OEM-trained engineers with access to OEM support and parts.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought Notice (Market Survey)
- Product Service Code: 6640 (Laboratory Equipment And Supplies)
- NAICS Code: 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing)
- Response Due: January 23, 2026, 10:00 AM CT
- Published: January 16, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Interested contractors, particularly small businesses, must submit capability statements via email to suzanne.martella@fda.hhs.gov. Responses should demonstrate capability and include the business name, Unique Entity ID (SAM), business address, website, size status, Point of Contact (POC) information, past performance (last 3 years), descriptive literature, technical information, GSA Schedule/BIC contract info (if applicable), and Buy American Act compliance details. Informational pricing is helpful but not required. Responses with weblinks will not be opened.
Eligibility / Set-Aside
This market survey primarily seeks small business sources under NAICS 334516 (size standard 1,000 employees). Other than small businesses, especially those offering domestic products, are also encouraged to respond.
Additional Notes
This notice is for informational and planning purposes only. It is not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded from this announcement. The government will not reimburse costs incurred in responding. Do not include proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information.