Water Activity Meter

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document outlines the specifications for additional AquaLab 4TE water activity meters and associated qualification kits required for the MSB lab.

• Aqualab 4TE water activity meter (Quantity: 3 each):
  • Features: Food safe water activity measurements, chilled-mirror dew point sensor, sample range of 15-50C, ±0.003 aw accuracy.
  • Includes: Calibrated unit, Cleaning Kit, and Warranty.
• AQUALAB Qualification Kit (Quantity: 3 each):
  • Includes: 10 vials each of the following verification standards: 1.000, 0.920, 0.760, 0.500, and 0.250 aw.

This document details the specific technical requirements and quantities for the water activity meters and qualification kits. Bidders should use these specifications to ensure their proposed products meet the government's needs and to accurately prepare their pricing and technical proposals.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document outlines the terms and conditions applicable to orders awarded under solicitation 1232SA26Q0326 for a Water Activity Meter. It incorporates Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) clauses and provisions.

• The solicitation incorporates numerous FAR clauses by reference, covering a wide range of topics including commercial products and services, contractor responsibilities, small business concerns, labor standards, and more. Specific clauses are listed as mandatory or applicable if checked.

• Key provisions include "Terms and Conditions—Commercial Products and Commercial Services" (FAR 52.212-4) and "Anti-Discrimination and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Compliance" (AGAR 452.203-71).

• It is anticipated that a firm fixed price contract will be awarded.

• The government intends to make one award.

• Quotes must be submitted by March 20, 2026, at 12:00 PM Pacific Time.

• Quoters must hold prices for 90 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of quotes.

• Evaluation will be based on the lowest price technically acceptable (LPTA) criteria.

• Technical acceptability requires meeting or exceeding salient characteristics, providing sufficient descriptive literature, and ensuring availability for delivery within the specified timeframe.

• Past performance will also be evaluated.

• Delivery is required 60 days after award, F.O.B. Destination.

• Various small business provisions are listed, including "Notice of Total Small Business Aside" (FAR 52.219-6) and "Utilization of Small Business Concerns" (FAR 52.219-8).

• HUBZone small business concerns are also mentioned.

• The full text of incorporated clauses and provisions can be accessed electronically at acquisition.gov.

• The document includes information on the USDA Ombudsman Program for Agency Protests.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "Decision to Restrict Competition under the Simplified Acquisition Threshold" which justifies why a particular acquisition is being restricted to a single source or brand. It outlines the government's need and the basis for limiting competition.

• Requisition Number: 1164712
• Requesting Activity: USDA, Eastern Regional Research Center
• Contracting Activity: Contracting Operations Branch/Acquisition and Property Division
• Estimated Value: $42,225.00
• Supplies or Services: Aqualab 4TE water activity meter with chilled-mirror dew point sensor.
• Suggested Source: AQUALAB Meter Group.
• Justification for Restriction: The brand is specifically required due to existing equipment, ensuring continuity in research and data consistency. Market research indicated the specific model was not available on GSA Advantage and primarily available through Meter Group and Fisher Scientific.
• Certifications: Technical/Requirements Personnel Certification and Contracting Officer's Certification are included, affirming the minimum need and accuracy of the justification.

This document explains why the opportunity is being restricted, indicating that vendors who do not offer the specified brand or product may not be eligible to bid. It provides details on the specific equipment needed and the rationale behind the sole-source justification, which can help potential bidders understand the procurement's limitations.