OPTICAL TENSIOMETER

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in FAR subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; proposals are being requested and a written solicitation will not be issued. The solicitation number is RFQ-4431-S-09-0009 and is issued as a request for quotation and incorporates provisions and clauses that are in effect through FAC 2005-32. The NACIS code applicable to this acquisition is 334516. The small business size standard is 500 employees. The procurement is sent aside for small business. The USDA, ARS has a requirement for an Optical Tensiometer. This Optical Tensiometer must have a high speed firewire camera that captures a minimum of 60 frames per second (FPS) and must also enable measurement of large samples of infinite length to be measured in the "Y" axis, 700mm (w) and 240mm (h). At a minimum, this instrument must be able to dose 3 samples (2 automatically and 1 manually). It must include software to support at least 5 mathematical fit methods for sessile drop fitting and 9 methods for surface free energy determinations. An integrated light blind to allow for viewing of low contact angles and a curved baseline fit to allow for baseline to be accounted for on oddly shaped samples are also required. Must allow viewing angle tilts along the elliptical diameter of the focal length such that when viewing angle is changed, center of image remains in the same place. Capable of showing current tilt angle by a laser indicator. This instrument must capable of adding the following options or features for future upgrades: • Capable of being upgraded to automatically dose 8 liquids. • Capable of delivering drops to the surface with one disposable manual dosing syringe with auto delivery. • Capable of automatically refilling 8 syringes if upgraded to 8 syringes. Delivery will be FOB Destination to Stoneville; MS. 38776 . Quoted price shall include delivery costs. PAYMENT: Any award made under this solicitation is subject to 31 CFR Part 208 which requires all payments made by the government to be made by electronic funds transfer. This solicitation incorporates the following FAR clauses, provisions and addendums: 52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors-Commercial item; 52.212-3 Offeror Representations and Certifications-Commercial Items - annual representations and certifications are required. Offerors shall include a statement as follows on their offer: "the offeror verifies by submission of this offer that the representation and certifications currently posted electronically at http://orca.bpn.gov have been entered or updated in the last 12 months, are current, accurate, compete, and applicable to this solicitation (including the business size standard applicable to the NAICS code referenced for this solicitation), as of the date of this offer and are incorporated into this offer by reference,