Dynamic Friction Tester (DFT) for the TxDOT Materials and Tests Division (MTD)

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Materials and Tests Division is soliciting bids for a Dynamic Friction Tester (DFT) USB Version, specifically targeting procurement of one new equipment unit that meets ASTM E-1911-98 standards. The procurement covers Travis County and Austin City jurisdictions, with a bid solicitation number of 601440000047227. The DFT must be a lightweight (maximum 34 kg), transportable instrument capable of measuring road surface friction properties, operational between 10-80 km/h, and compatible with Windows 10. Key requirements include an attached water tank, ten sets of rubber sliders, a thickness gauge, and delivery to the TxDOT campus at 6230 E. Stassney Lane in Austin, TX. The bid is structured as an Invitation for Bid (IFB) with a posted date of March 10, 2025, and a submission deadline of March 25, 2025, at 3:00 PM Central Time. Evaluation will be based on lowest price and the respondent's ability to meet specified technical requirements, with TxDOT reserving the right to determine best value considering factors such as installation costs, life cycle costs, quality, reliability, and vendor performance history.

The solicitation includes several preference categories that could provide competitive advantages, including preferences for Texas-produced supplies, USA-produced materials, and businesses owned by service-disabled veterans. Potential bidders must comply with comprehensive insurance requirements, including Workers' Compensation, Commercial General Liability, and Commercial Automobile Insurance with specific minimum coverage levels. The procurement process emphasizes vendor compliance with state regulations, including child support obligations and anti-trust law certifications. Vendors must submit all documentation electronically through the Bonfire system, with strict requirements for insurance certificates, bid tables, and execution of bid forms. While no specific budget range was explicitly stated, the procurement includes a 12-month warranty period beginning after TxDOT accepts the instrument into inventory, with payment terms set at 30 days following acceptance inspection and installation completion. The solicitation encourages participation from diverse vendors and includes provisions for potential tie-breaking scenarios based on various preference categories.