Microwave Digestor
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 Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), specifically DCSO-COLUMBUS-DIVISION-2, has issued a Sources Sought notice to assess industry capability for providing a Microwave Digestor. This requirement is for the DLA Product Test Center in Philadelphia, PA, to acquire a high-power, high-performance microwave digestion system for elemental analysis. Responses are due by February 23, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
This Sources Sought aims to identify vendors capable of supplying a complete, "turnkey" Questron QWave 1000 Watt Microwave Digestion System. The system is needed to prepare chemically resistant and complex sample matrices for elemental analysis and to standardize the laboratory's digestion platforms for operational interoperability.
Key Requirements
The required system must:
- Achieve complete and reproducible digestion of difficult materials (e.g., Titanium 6-4, tungsten ores, specialty steels).
- Be capable of digesting a minimum of 12 samples simultaneously.
- Incorporate multiple layers of safety monitoring and control, including real-time temperature/pressure control and a blast-resistant cavity door.
- Ensure interoperability with the existing Questron Vulcan S Uno system, utilizing common software and interchangeable components.
Deliverables
The contractor shall provide:
- A Questron QWave 1000 Watt Microwave Digestion System.
- 16 Enhanced Volume, High-Pressure (eVHP), HF-Compatible Vessels and associated components.
- A perpetual software license (common platform).
- On-site installation and successful Installation Qualification/Operational Qualification (IQ/OQ).
- On-site operator training for up to 5 personnel (minimum 4 hours).
- Operator and Service Manuals (hardcopy and electronic).
- A one-year comprehensive warranty covering parts, labor, travel, food, and lodging.
Period & Place of Performance
- Delivery: All hardware, software, and accessories within 90 days from the date of award.
- Installation & Training: Coordinated upon delivery.
- Location: FOB Destination to DLA Product Test Center, Philadelphia, PA.
Special Requirements
The system requires specific electrical (208 VAC, 50/60Hz, 15A or 120 VAC, 50/60Hz, 20A), dimensions (Max 25" W x 23" D x 26" H), and ventilation (integrated 150 CFM exhaust blower). Instrument certification/verification (IQ/OQ) and NIST Traceable ANSI/NCSL Z540.1 certificate for calibrated components are also required.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: February 23, 2026, 10:00 PM EST
- Published Date: February 13, 2026
- Product Service Code: 6640 - Laboratory Equipment And Supplies
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact Elizabeth Dickstein at elizabeth.dickstein@dla.mil or 614-692-2060.