NuTrace Instrument Etching System and Training

This contract, issued under solicitation number 36C26126Q0690 by the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Network Contracting Office 21, is a brand-name only requirement under FAR Part 12 for the acquisition of a NuTrace Instrument Etching System and associated training services, set aside exclusively for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses. The offering includes a NuTrace NUX-20 NG laser unit, a Windows 10 computer with accessories, a Fumex fume extractor, specialized templates, laser configurations for multiple instrument materials, safety glasses, an electropolishing unit, and proprietary solutions, all to be delivered to the San Francisco VA Medical Center with delivery expected within 60 days after receipt of order under FOB Destination terms. The contract mandates that all surgical instrument marking be performed using laser etching by LIA-certified personnel, with each instrument receiving a unique device identifier (UDI) integrated into the CensiTrac inventory system. Training for two personnel, up to 32 hours combined, is required and must be completed as part of performance. All submissions must be made via email to Leah Smith, the contracting officer, by May 18, 2026, and must include a completed Price/Cost Schedule, an Authorized Distributor Letter on OEM letterhead, and a certified Buy American Certificate. The evaluation will follow a trade-off process under FAR 52.212-2, assessing overall value based on all factors, not just price. Payment will be processed electronically through Tungsten Network using the VA-specific accounting number AAA544240062, and offers must comply with SAM maintenance and electronic invoicing requirements. Special security and compliance conditions apply, including stringent personnel vetting under VAAR 852.204-72 requiring Tier 3 or Tier 5 background checks, mandatory use of PIV cards for facility access, and prohibitions on equipment or services restricted under the American Security Drone Act and Section 889 of the NDAA 2019. Contractors are also bound by new DEI discrimination prohibitions and restrictions on inverted domestic corporations and debarred entities, with all clauses cited incorporating authorized deviations from standard FAR and VAAR provisions. No contract value is specified due to incomplete pricing data, and no contracting officer’s representative is identified, leaving full administrative authority with the contracting officer.