Electromechanical Materials Testing System

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is seeking competitive sealed bids for an Electromechanical Materials Testing System for the Corrosion and Materials Durability Unit of the State Materials Office, located in Leon County. The procurement involves a comprehensive materials testing system capable of performing tensile, compressive, bending, and shear loading tests on metals, plastics, and fiber-reinforced polymer composite materials. The system must meet specific technical requirements, including a dual-column electromechanical configuration with compatible computer hardware and software, and must comply with various ASTM standards. The solicitation requires the system to include an extensometer, pneumatic gripping system, and specific measurement capabilities, with detailed technical specifications outlined in the bid document. The bid is due on April 15, 2025 at 9:00 AM EST, with required delivery to the State Materials Office in Gainesville, Florida by September 1, 2025. Vendors must be registered in the MyFloridaMarketPlace system and submit a complete bid package that includes line items for the system, shipping, delivery, installation, calibration, training, and warranty.

Potential bidders must meet several regulatory requirements, including being authorized to do business in Florida and complying with various state statutes. The procurement includes provisions for minority and disadvantaged business enterprises, ensuring full opportunity to submit bids without discrimination based on race, color, national origin, or sex. Vendors are subject to scrutiny under Section 287.135, which prohibits contracting with companies on specific scrutinized companies lists for transactions over $1 million. The solicitation allows for a potential 5% price preference for Florida-based businesses and requires vendors to comply with drug-free workplace certification and E-Verify employment eligibility verification. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the materials testing system suggests a significant procurement value. Vendors must also agree to comply with the state's Inspector General requirements and incorporate specific subcontractor obligations as outlined in Florida Statutes.