66 -- Magnetic Suspension Balance System

In the absence of other qualified sources, it is the intent of the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to negotiate with Rubotherm, GMBH for a Magnetic Suspension Balance system on a sole source basis. This is a synopsis for a commercial item prepared in accordance with the format in FAR subpart 12.6, in conjunction with FAR 13.5, and as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This is not a request for competitive proposals. A determination by the Government not to compete this action based on this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Any information received in response to this notice will be considered for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Interested parties who believe they can meet the agency?s requirements are requested to submit in writing an affirmative response demonstrating their technical capabilities. To be considered an affirmative response, the response must include detailed technical information and other technical literature demonstrating the ability to meet the stated requirements. Interested parties must address each of the mandatory requirements listed in sufficient detail to permit agency analysis to establish a bona fide capability to meet requirements. Failure to submit documentation will result in the agency proceeding as stated above. STATEMENT The Physical and Chemical Properties Division, Experimental Properties of Fluids Group of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has a need for a Magnetic Suspension Balance for gravimetric measurements at temperatures up to 500 degree C and pressures up to 500 bar. The system shall be manufactured from Haynes alloy 242 with high-temperature permanent magnet and complete controlling system for contactless vertical force measurements in closed vessels. The system shall include a high-temperature and a high-pressure measuring cell with an inner volume of approximately 25 cm3 manufactured from haynes alloy 242. The system shall include a silicon sinker (buoy) with a volume of approximately 10 cm3 and a weight changing device to be used for external balance calibration. The overall system shall have a resolution in density of 0.0001 kg/m3, reproducibility in weighings of 0.08 mg, and uncertainty of 0.02% of the reading.