Rotational Viscometers for the TxDOT Materials and Tests Division (MTD)

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is conducting a solicitation for two rotational viscometers for its Materials and Tests Division (MTD) located in Austin, TX. The procurement, identified as Solicitation No. 601440000047173, seeks new equipment capable of measuring asphalt binder viscosity according to AASHTO T316 standards, with specific technical requirements including at least three cylindrical spindle sizes, measurement capabilities between 0.1-200 rpm, and temperature control between 60-165C with 1.0C accuracy. Acceptable models include the Ametek Brookfield XDV2TRVTJ00U00 and Anton Paar ViscoQC 300-H, with equipment to be delivered to the MTD Laboratory Building at 6230 E. Stassney Lane in Austin. The solicitation opened on February 6, 2025, with questions due by February 11, 2025, and responses posted by February 14, 2025. Bid responses are due February 20, 2025, at 3:00 PM Central Time, with an anticipated award date of February 27, 2025. TxDOT will evaluate responses based on lowest price and ability to meet technical specifications, with a requirement for a minimum 12-month warranty covering 100% parts and labor.

The solicitation includes provisions for various bid preferences under Texas Administrative Code Rule 34TAC 20.306, which may provide advantages for Texas-produced supplies, agricultural products, USA-produced materials, and products from service-disabled veteran-owned businesses. Vendors must be registered on the Texas Comptroller's Centralized Master Bidders List (CMBL) with appropriate NIGP classifications and must complete several mandatory forms, including the Texas Family Code Schedule and Execution of Bid document. The procurement offers an Early Payment Program that provides vendors with accelerated payments in exchange for cash discounts, managed through a partnership with Oxygen Finance Americas, Inc. No specific budget range or award value is explicitly stated in the documents, and there are no HUB Subcontracting Plan requirements or insurance specifications for this solicitation. While no incumbent vendors are identified, the procurement emphasizes that the contract is not exclusive, allowing TxDOT to obtain products from alternative sources during the contract term.