Tensiometer

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding a solicitation for tensiometers.

• Operating System & Security: The instrument computer must use Windows 11 and will not be connected to the internet. No specific security/IT standards for integration into a local network were specified beyond this.
• Training: On-site training in Peoria, IL, will be conducted, with the length dependent on the instrument's complexity.
• Country of Origin: Equipment manufactured in Free Trade Agreement countries (e.g., Germany, Sweden) is acceptable, provided compliance with FAR 52.225-1 (Buy American-Supplies) and 52.225-2 (Buy American Certificate).
• Controller Functionality: A controller (software) is required for data acquisition and analysis, which must be performed offline.
• Application: Tensiometers will be used to measure surface properties of liquid samples for potential surfactant and detergent applications, not for soil analysis.
• Sample Volume: Preferred sample volume is less than 10 mL, ideally less than 1 mL.
• Dynamics: Parameters of interest include critical micelle concentration, dynamic interfacial tension, and hydrophilic-lipophilic balance, over a temperature range of 10 to 90 Celsius.
• Surface Tension Type: Interfacial surface tension is required.
• Surfactant Size: Interest in surfactant size is confirmed if it refers to surfactant micelles.

These clarifications provide specific details on technical requirements, compliance, and application, which bidders should consider when preparing their proposals.

Amendment / Modification

• This amendment includes Attachment 3 - Q&A.

• All other terms and conditions, as well as the due date for quotes, remain the same.

• Attachment 3 - Q&A is added.

• Proposal deadlines and submission requirements are unchanged.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document is a solicitation for a firm-fixed price requirements contract to procure a Tensiometer and accessories. The procurement includes installation, calibration, training, and warranty services. The government intends to make a single award based on a best value determination.

• Supplies: One (1) Tensiometer and accessories.

• Services: One (1) each for Installation, Calibration, Training, and Warranty.

• Technical: Proposed products must meet or exceed all salient characteristics detailed in Attachment 2 - Specifications. Bidders must provide descriptive literature/documentation to demonstrate compliance.

• Delivery: All items must be delivered no later than 120 days after award.

• Shipping: F.O.B. Destination. Shipping address: USDA-ARS, 1815 N. University St., Peoria, IL 61604.

• Contract Type: Firm-fixed price requirements contract.

• Clauses: Incorporates numerous Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and United States Department of Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) clauses and provisions by reference, including FAR 52.225-3 Buy American–Free Trade Agreements-Israeli Trade Act. Full text of clauses is available electronically.

• Evaluation Criteria: Award will be made to the offeror representing the best value to the Government, based on:

  • Price: Bidders must provide pricing for all five (5) line items. Total price evaluation will consider all quoted amounts, including discounts and shipping. Prices will be evaluated for fairness and reasonableness.
  • Technical Acceptability: Proposals will be rated "acceptable" or "unacceptable" based on meeting salient characteristics, providing adequate descriptive literature, and availability for delivery within the specified timeframe.
  • Past Performance: Evaluated as Acceptable, Neutral (no record), or Unacceptable.

• Evaluation Method: Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA). Only the lowest priced offer will be evaluated for Technical Acceptability and Past Performance. If unacceptable, the process continues with the next lowest priced offer.

• Offer Acceptance: Prices must be held firm for 90 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of offers.

• Questions Due: January 28, 2026, at 12:00 PM Mountain Time, submitted via email to amber.sampson@usda.gov.

• This solicitation includes FAR 52.219-6, "Notice of Total Small Business Aside," indicating it is set aside for small businesses.

• Attachment 2 - Specifications is a critical reference for technical requirements.

• Details on filing agency protests with the USDA Ombudsman Program are provided, including informal and formal processes, required information, and timelines. Protesters must first attempt to resolve concerns with the Contracting Officer.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document outlines the technical specifications and requirements for a bench-top tensiometer to be procured by the Bio-Oils Research Unit. It details the scope of work, background on the project's objectives, and specific contractor requirements for the equipment.

• Scope of Work: Includes delivery, installation, calibration, training, warranty, shipping, transportation, and tariff costs. The tensiometer must measure surface and interfacial tensions, adhesion, and density of solids at ambient and elevated temperatures, with capability for automatic Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) determination.
• Technical Requirements:
  • Force measurement range: ≤0.2 μN to ≥1500 N, at ≥10 Hz.
  • Temperature control: 25 - 90 °C or wider.
  • CMC module for automatic determination.
  • Moving stage with ≥100 mm travel and ≤0.025 mm resolution.
  • Controlling software with raw/analyzed data export via USB. Requires a Windows PC and ≥20” monitor if not integrated.
  • Includes sample vessel (70 mm diameter), Wilhelmy plate, Du Noüy ring, Adhesion Force Probe (Pt-Ir), density measurement probe, and holders.
  • 1+ year warranty.
  • Physical dimensions: Fits standard lab bench (60" W x 27" D), height ≤54".
  • Power: Standard US outlets (AC 110 V, 60 Hz) or adapter.
  • Delivery: Within 120 days of order receipt.
• Government Furnished: Government will be present for delivery/installation, may supply a loading dock, and will provide suitable space and electricity at 1815 North University Street, Peoria, Illinois.
• Deliverables/Schedule: Equipment delivery no later than 120 days after purchase order, to 1815 N. University St., Peoria, IL 61604.

This document is critical for vendors to understand the precise technical specifications, performance requirements, and logistical details necessary to bid on the procurement of the bench-top tensiometer. It outlines all mandatory features, accessories, warranty, delivery timelines, and government-provided resources.