NIGP 22068: Surface Profile Measurement Equipment

NIGP 22068 Surface Profile Measurement Equipment is an Item code encompassing optical and surface metrology instruments used by state and local educational institutions to measure, analyze, and document surface characteristics of optical components and precision-manufactured parts. State and local governments procure this equipment primarily through higher-education institutions — particularly community colleges and technical programs — where surface profilers support laboratory instruction in precision optics, optical manufacturing, and materials science. The equipment enables students and technicians to quantify surface deviations, roughness, and malformations during manufacturing processes and quality-control workflows. Purchases under this code typically involve specialized instrumentation tied to specific curriculum outcomes and laboratory compatibility requirements, resulting in procurement activity concentrated among academic institutions rather than general government departments.

Valencia College in Florida issued a Notice of Intended Sole Source Purchase (SS202635) on October 19, 2026 for a PGI Optics CORE Optical Surface Profilometer (part number M112-215821) to be supplied by Taylor Hobson (Ametek). The college asserts the equipment is the only option compatible with its existing laboratory setup and teaching methodology within the Precision Optics class. The procurement is authorized under Florida Administrative Code 6A-14.0734(2)(a)(h) and Florida Statute 287.057, with a seven business day posting period. No contract value, specific response deadline beyond the posting window, or competitive-bidding opportunity is disclosed in the notice. The scarcity of posted opportunities under this code suggests that surface-profile measurement equipment procurement remains limited to specialized educational settings where curriculum demand and existing equipment ecosystems drive purchasing decisions.