MFO SEAL AQ400 T. Bennett

The state of Alabama, specifically the Montgomery Field Office laboratory located in Mobile County, is seeking to procure a SEAL AQ400 Automated Multi-Chemistry Discrete Analyzer Package to replace discontinued flow injection analyzers. This sole-source procurement is designed to acquire a specialized scientific instrument for nutrient analysis of drinking water, surface water, and wastewater, with capabilities to analyze TKN, ammonia, nitrate/nitrite, and phosphate contaminants. The procurement includes the analyzer, a high-specification computer, a three-day training and installation package, and associated freight and handling. Key technical requirements include an optically pure flow-through stationary quartz cuvette, automated probe washing, compatibility with EPA regulatory methods, and comprehensive technical support. The bid is due on April 14, 2025, with the opportunity posted on April 9, 2025, and requires vendors to provide a one-year warranty, complete installation, commissioning, and on-site training. Specific evaluation criteria are not explicitly detailed, but the procurement emphasizes technical specifications and the vendor's ability to meet the Montgomery Field Office's precise scientific analysis needs.

The procurement appears to be open to all qualified vendors, with no specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises mentioned in the documentation. SEAL Analytical, Inc. is identified as the exclusive manufacturer and sole source provider of this specific technology in the United States, effectively limiting competitive bidding. The total procurement value is $51,420, broken down as $44,920 for the analyzer, $1,600 for a computer, $3,900 for training and installation, and $1,000 for freight and handling. Vendors must be registered in Alabama Buys, comply with state procurement regulations, and meet extensive technical and administrative requirements outlined in the Quick Quote Standard Boilerplate document. The procurement will require vendors to demonstrate compliance with sales tax registration, immigration law adherence, E-Verify program enrollment, and provide necessary certification of good standing. Any potential contractors must be prepared to integrate the new analyzer with existing laboratory infrastructure and meet the stringent technical specifications for nutrient analysis equipment.