Gravimeter

The State of Utah Division of Purchasing, on behalf of the Department of Natural Resources, issued IFB MW27-100 on September 2, 2026 seeking a gravimeter with a September 10, 2026 bid due date. Award will be made as a single purchase order to the lowest cost responsive and responsible vendor.

The Utah Geological Survey requires a CG-6 Autograv Meter or equivalent high-precision, survey-grade relative gravimeter with repeatability of less than 0.005 mGal, resolution of 0.001 mGal, and ultra-low instrumental drift. The equipment package includes meter tripod, battery set with spares, battery chargers, spare parts kit, carrying bag, and associated power and data cords. The gravimeter must record observed gravity with adjustable measurement duration, standard deviation, tilt in X and Y directions, date and timestamp, temperature, and earth tide correction data. Delivery is FOB Destination Freight Prepaid to the Utah Geological Survey at 1594 West North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, Attention Kayla Smith, with shipping costs included in the bid.

The project budget is $150,000, noted as flexible. The State retains inspection rights for thirty days following delivery. Warranty is one year from delivery. Commercial general liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence / $3,000,000 aggregate and commercial automobile liability of $1,000,000 are required. Tariff charges paid by the vendor are reimbursable if detailed documentation is provided and charges are processed through a written change order.

Five bids were received ranging from $120,889.97 to $219,084.80. The lowest responsive bid was submitted by The R.T. Clark Companies Inc at $120,889.97 (gravimeter $119,990.00, shipping $899.97); Kijero LLC submitted the second-lowest bid at $131,070.00. The procurement supports the Utah Governor's "Operation Gigawatt" initiative to expand the UGS geothermal research division and replaces equipment over 15 years old.