P25-1367 MARS 6 Microwave Digestion System

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is issuing a Request for Quote (RFQ) to procure a MARS 6 Microwave Digestion System and related laboratory equipment for mineral and heavy metal analysis of fertilizer samples at the CDFA Center for Analytical Chemistry in Sacramento, California. The procurement includes six line items: a MARS 6 230V/60Hz microwave digestion system with iWave capability, a vessel set for the MARS Xpress system, an EasyPrep iWave Premium component, vessel cleaning brushes, a Customer Care Plus Plan, and MARS/Blade installation services. All equipment must be new and in current production, with delivery required on a Free on Board (FOB) Destination basis with freight prepaid by the contractor. Bidders must submit detailed pricing on company letterhead with all freight, shipping, and handling charges included in unit pricing and must provide required documentation including Commercially Useful Function statements, Bidder Declarations, Recycled Content Certifications, Darfur Contracting Act certifications, and Payee Data Records (STD 204). The RFQ will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder on an "All or None" basis or for individual line items as specified, and the State may require evidence of bidder qualifications regarding experience, facility type, expertise, and financial resources. Proposals are due by May 27, 2026, at 12:00 PM PT, with questions regarding the solicitation due by May 14, 2026, and answers to be published by May 21, 2026, via addendum.

This solicitation is designated as a Small Business (SB)/Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Option solicitation, which restricts participation to suppliers certified by the State of California as small businesses or DVBEs. Payment will be made in accordance with the California Prompt Payment Act, with invoices due within 45 days of acceptance or invoice receipt, whichever is later. No incumbent vendors or budget range information is specified in the solicitation documents. The procurement requires integration with existing MARS laboratory digestion infrastructure, as evidenced by the inclusion of vessel sets and accessories compatible with the MARS Xpress system. Interested bidders must ensure they meet all certification requirements and can meet the specified delivery location and FOB terms to be considered responsive.