Salient_Characteristics_-_Bulk_Density_Analyzer.docx

PR # [Insert PR Number] Statement of Need

Description of Need:

A. Introduction:

This proposal is for the purchase of a bulk density analyzer to rapidly determine total porosity in geologic samples. The Geology, Energy, and Minerals Science Center (GEMSC) and Energy Resources Program (ERP) currently do not have the in-house capability to make routine measurements of total porosity of samples, and porosity measurements are currently sent to external laboratories for analysis by fee. Given growing prioritization of pore space quantification for multi-resource analyses, acquisition of the bulk density analyzer will enable USGS scientists to measure this key parameter of reservoir rocks in GEMSC laboratories. Procurement of a bulk density analyzer will streamline pore space studies and enable a higher throughput of sample analyses that can be measured with consistent quality control and quality assurance.

Salient Characteristics:

GeoPyc 1365 Automatic Envelope Density Analyzer

- BRAND NAME OR EQUAL

Salient Characteristics that must be met are the following:

Automatic Envelope Density Analyzer:

· Small tabletop unit less than 4 ft2 in area and less than 2 ft in height.

· Fully automated data acquisition, data storage, and reporting.

· Touchscreen interface to provide standalone operation of instrument, including performing measurements, reviewing results, printing, reports, and defining methods.

· USB connectivity for integration with lab balance or peripheral input devices.

· Determination of rock and sediment sample bulk envelope volume within less than %2 error.

· Rapid automated measurement of sample bulk volume and bulk density by envelopment of sample in quasi-fluid that does not infiltrate pores less than 0.5 mm in diameter

· Less than 20 minutes analysis time per typical geologic sample including multiple replicates to ensure data quality and assess measurement precision.

· Cannot operate with fluid that would infiltrate geologic sample pore space (e.g. water displacement)

· Non-destructive analysis.

· Use of non-hazardous, reusable quasi-fluid available for purchase through future.

· Two cylindrical sample chamber and plungers must be provided, one greater than 50 mm in diameter for the large volume setting, and the smaller volume setting must be between 15 and 30 mm in diameter.

· Operate with free interoperable software loaded onto the instrument by vendor.

· Capability to analyze lithified rock samples or disaggregated sediments.

Miscellaneous:

· The instrument must be new and a model currently in production. Refurbished or demonstrator instruments are not acceptable.

· The instrument warranty must be one-year parts, labor, and travel.

· Must include at least 1 day of additional training or application consultation (either on-site of off-site) if requested.