Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) Detector Systems

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Materials and Tests Division, is requesting bids for two Scanning Electron Microscope detector systems under IFB 601440000052880, with bids due August 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM Central Time and questions due August 19, 2026. This is a proprietary specification solicitation; only responses conforming exactly to specifications will be considered. Award is tentatively set for August 31, 2026.

The scope comprises two detector systems compatible with an existing Hitachi SU3500 SEM: one Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) detector system with Silicon Drift Detector technology for elemental analysis and mapping, and one Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) detector system with CMOS-based imaging for crystallographic orientation mapping. The pricing schedule names Oxford Instruments Ultim Max Infinity 40 EDS (P/N 51D1068) and Oxford Instruments C-Swift EBSD (P/N 51U2027) with CMOS FSD Detector (P/N 51D2509) as specific models; equivalent equipment meeting or exceeding specifications will be considered. Each detector system requires furnishing, delivery, installation, calibration, on-site training of at least four hours, and a one-year preventive maintenance and technical support service plan with up to three optional one-year renewal periods exercisable by TxDOT. All hardware, software, accessories, integration services, operator and service manuals, and calibration certificates are included. Replacement parts during preventive maintenance must be new OEM components; non-OEM or rebuilt parts require written TxDOT approval and a minimum 90-day warranty. A 12-month warranty covering 100 percent parts and labor commences upon TxDOT acceptance. Delivery is to the Materials and Tests Division facility in Austin, Texas; freight must be prepaid and included in unit prices, which must be submitted in Excel format on the provided pricing schedule.

The initial contract term runs from execution through August 31, 2027. Award will be made to the lowest-priced responsive bidder meeting specified requirements, contingent on vendor past-performance evaluation. TxDOT reserves the right to reject responses from vendors with documented unsatisfactory performance. Respondents claiming Texas-produced supplies, USA-produced equipment, service-disabled veteran-owned business, or other preferences under 34 TAC 20.306 must indicate these on the execution of bid form. Workers' Compensation Insurance with Waiver of Subrogation, Commercial General Liability with TxDOT as Additional Insured ($600,000 each occurrence), and Commercial Automobile Insurance ($600,000 combined single limit) must be in place prior to beginning work.