NRS Rhinelander Autoclave/Laboratory Steam Sterilizer
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 USDA Forest Service is soliciting quotations for one Autoclave/Laboratory Steam Sterilizer for the Northern Research Station 13 in Rhinelander, WI. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside opportunity, seeking a U.S.-made unit equal to or equivalent to the Tuttnauer 3870HSG-WS Autoclave. Offers are due March 7, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for one (1) Pre & Post Vacuum Autoclave with an 85L/22.5 Gallon Chamber. Key salient characteristics include:
- Chamber capacity: 22-32 gal/85-120 L, with specific interior dimensions.
- Fractionated pre-vacuum air removal and post-vacuum drying.
- Stainless-steel interior, built-in steam generator, and sterilization setpoints at 121°C/15 psi and 134°C/30.5 psi.
- Front loading with automatic door, minimum 2 shelves, and exterior dimensions not exceeding 31" width and 48" depth.
- Power requirements: 3-Phase, 230 volts, 25 amp., 60Hz.
- Independent operation from building water, DI water, and external drain.
- Safety features: double locking device, control lock-out, high pressure/temperature control.
- Must be free-standing or include a stand with castors; benchtop units are not acceptable.
- Compliance with UL, FDA, CE, ASME standards.
- Programmable sterilization cycle settings. Offerors providing "or equal" items must include descriptive literature demonstrating compliance with all salient characteristics.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Quotation (RFQ), Firm-Fixed Price.
- Award: One award is anticipated.
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (NAICS 334516, size standard 1000 employees).
- Published: February 20, 2026.
- Questions Due: February 26, 2026.
- Offers Due: March 7, 2026, 2359 ET.
- Delivery Required: By April 30, 2026 (early deliveries accepted).
Submission & Evaluation
Award will be based on the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable methodology.
- Technical Acceptability: Products must meet or exceed all salient characteristics. Brand name, make, and model number must be identified, or clearly identified as "equal" with supporting documentation.
- Price: Evaluated for fairness and reasonableness.
- Past Performance: Evaluated as Acceptable, Neutral, or Unacceptable.
- Requirements: Offerors must have an active SAM registration, submit a completed Schedule of Items (Attachment 2), and a completed Buy American Certificate. Prices must be held firm for 90 calendar days.
Additional Notes
The place of performance is Rhinelander, WI. The solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses by reference, accessible at www.acquisition.gov. Contact Patrick Jones at patrick.jones2@usda.gov for inquiries.