Atomic force microscope (AFM)(UW-MAD)[20-0089]

The University of Wisconsin-Madison's Purchasing Services Department is seeking bids for a single Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) for the Materials Science & Engineering Department. The procurement is a Request for Bid (RFB) for a sophisticated scientific instrument to be delivered and installed at Engineering Centers Building in Madison, Wisconsin. The AFM must meet specific technical requirements, including x-y noise levels below 80 pm, customizable software, fast scanning capabilities, and multi-modal imaging capabilities covering conducting AFM, PFM, KPFM, and nanolithography. Bidders are required to provide a minimum of three client references from comparable institutions served within the past three years. The solicitation was issued on April 21, 2020, with written questions due by April 28, 2020, and bid responses required by May 5, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. CDT. Bid prices and terms will remain firm for sixty days following the bid opening, and the award will be made to the lowest extended net total bid deemed in the best interest of the University.

The procurement includes preferences for Wisconsin-certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (DVB), and Woman-Owned Businesses (WBE), with these businesses receiving consideration if their bids are not more than 5% higher than the apparent low bid. Successful contractors must provide comprehensive maintenance and repair services, including a 72-hour response time for service calls, parts availability within five days, manufacturer-trained personnel, and unlimited callback maintenance during normal business hours. The University qualifies for governmental and educational discounts, which must be reflected in unit pricing. The bid will be awarded on an F.O.B. Destination Installed basis, with the bidder responsible for all costs related to packing, freight, insurance, setup, instruction, per diem, and operation manuals, excluding import/export costs. Payment terms are set at Net 30 days following equipment acceptance. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the bid opening will not be held publicly, and results will be emailed to responding bidders.