Intent to Sole Source - Benchtop X-ray Powder Diffractometer

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Acquisition Solutions, Cincinnati Acquisition Division intends to negotiate on a sole-source basis with Malvern Panalytical for the purchase of a benchtop X-ray powder diffractometer, associated components, and extended warranty. This procurement is being conducted in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i), only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. NAICS Code 334516, Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing, applies to this procurement and the size standard is 1000 employees. This procurement consists of procuring and delivering the Malvern Panalytical benchtop X-ray diffractometer because this is the only instrument currently produced that meets all of the required minimum specifications. - Brag-Brentano geometry goniometer with a radius of 145 mm; - Benchtop model; - 300W high voltage generator able to operate at 40kV with 7.5 mA Cu X-ray tube; - PIXcel 1D detector able to provide fast detection to reduce scanning time; - Sample holder with 6 spaces able to run with 51 mm and with 27 mm holders; - The autosampler contains 6 slots with a continuous loading device; - Software able to perform phase identification, semi-quantitative analysis, provide graphic display of the results, and ability to export. The software must be compatible and able to work with the ICDD PDF4+ database, including minerals and organics. The software must include the option of automatic refinement of the scans; - Detector speed of 255 individual channels with continuous motion; - Detector speed of 255 or greater than a conventional point detector; - Internal cooling system, not external; - An external touchscreen display that allows for full operation and control of the parameters during analysis, permitting modifications to the generated scans in real-time. These controls must be independent of computer data management & mineral library matching and data reduction. Multiple users must be able to modify parameters simultaneously and independently via the external touchscreen and separate computer; - An external sample changer that allows for uploading samples without opening the instruments box; - Tube casing made from a lead-free alloy that ensures the corrosion free operation in the system, preventing any radiation leaks in the long-term; - Removal of existing instrument for recycling; - One-year warranty, including preventive maintenance and consumables; - A three-year service contract after the completion of the initial warranty year; and - Installation. Refurbished or remanufactured units are not acceptable. THIS NOTICE OF INTENT IS NOT A REQUEST FOR COMPETATIVE QUOTATIONS. This notice satisfies the requirement at FAR 5.201(b)(1) for publicizing the proposed contract action. It is the Government's intent to award a single, firm-fixed price contract. Sources wishing to be considered MUST submit documentation to the office identified in this notice. Supporting evidence must be furnished in sufficient detail to demonstrate compliance. Information MUST be sent electronically to mccune.jenifera@epa.gov. Telephone responses will not be honored. Responses must be received by 3:00pm Eastern Time on March 25, 2019. A determination by the Government not to compete this acquisition based on responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. This commercial acquisition will be process in accordance with FAR Part 13.