Zeiss Sigma 360 VP FESEM

Background
The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division (NSWCCD) intends to award a firm-fixed contract for the procurement of a Zeiss Sigma 360 Variable Pressure Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) from Carl Zeiss Microscopy, LLC on a Sole Source basis. This procurement is essential for supporting research and development of Navy materials and providing engineering services support to in-service issues, including failure analyses and evaluation of metallurgical deficiencies.

The contract aims to enhance the capabilities of the Physical Metallurgy and Fire Performance Branch by acquiring high-resolution imaging technology necessary for characterizing the microstructure of metallic materials.

Work Details
The contract includes the procurement of one Zeiss Sigma 360 VP FESEM along with associated start-up services which encompass installation, training, and three option years of annual preventative maintenance. The FESEM will be utilized for various applications including failure analysis, evaluation of metallurgical deficiencies, and qualification and certification of metallic materials.

The minimum requirements for the Technical Capability factor include meeting all specifications defined in the Performance Work Statement (PWS)/Statement of Work (SOW). A quote must be rated 'ACCEPTABLE' to be eligible for award.

Period of Performance
One year base period with three one-year options.

Place of Performance
Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division, 9500 MacArthur Boulevard, West Bethesda MD 20817-5700.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must provide a quote that meets all requirements as defined in the solicitation PWS/SOW. Quotes must demonstrate technical capability by achieving an 'ACCEPTABLE' rating based on specified criteria. There are no specific set-aside requirements or certifications mentioned beyond those related to technical capability.

Incumbent Analysis (see Incumbents section for more detail)
The solicitation for a Zeiss Sigma 360 VP FESEM appears to have a closely related prior contract with Carl Zeiss Microscopy (N0016423PG052, $30,612; 05/19/23–06/11/24) for “ZEISS ULTRA PLUS SEM MAINTENANCE.” While the prior award is for maintenance of a different Zeiss SEM model, it suggests the same vendor’s installed SEM support and ongoing service capability at NSWCCD, and the current requirement similarly includes installation/start-up and preventative maintenance for a Zeiss field emission scanning electron microscope.