Mechanical Engineering Universal Material Testing System

The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay School of Engineering is seeking to procure a Universal Material Testing System (UMTS) through a competitive bidding process. This specialized laboratory equipment is critical for ABET accreditation in Mechanical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering Technology programs. The system will enable comprehensive materials testing, including tension, compression, creep, and fatigue tests on metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. The equipment will support both educational and research objectives, allowing characterization of mechanical properties such as yield strength, elastic modulus, tensile strength, and stress-strain curve generation. The solicitation was posted on February 17, 2025, with proposals due by March 14, 2025, and vendors must submit responses through the online bidding platform at https://bids.sciquest.com/apps/Router/PublicEvent?CustomerOrg=UWisconsin. The award will be granted to the vendor providing the lowest total overall cost solution that meets the specified technical requirements. Following the award, the selected contractor will be required to submit a formal quote, after which a purchase order will be issued for this one-time procurement.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent organizations. No incumbent vendors are listed in the provided documentation. The procurement appears to be open to any qualified vendor capable of meeting the technical specifications for the Universal Material Testing System. While a specific budget range is not disclosed, the procurement is structured as a single, one-time purchase for the UW-Green Bay School of Engineering. The system's versatility suggests potential value for teaching, research, and potential community or industry collaboration. Vendors will be evaluated primarily on their ability to provide a solution that meets the technical specifications at the most competitive overall cost, indicating a focus on value and technical compliance rather than specific vendor characteristics or enterprise classifications.