Scope
Description
The purpose of this Procurement Exercise is for:
An energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer for reliable non-contact and non-destructive elemental analysis and mapping of heritage materials, with warranty as detailed in Section 3. The system should also function as a hand-held instrument and possess robust imaging capabilities, enabling comprehensive analysis and precise examination of materials.
The product(s) must come with user friendly software for measurement and data analysis (including all required licences, for up to 5 users) to control the system, to produce and manipulate images, and to analyse the data.
The Appointed Supplier must also:
• deliver, set up, calibrate and test the system and software;
• provide training to TNA staff in the use of the MA-XRF system and software within 2 months of delivery; and
• provide technical and/or remote support to TNA staff in the use of the MA-XRF and software for at least 5 years after delivery.
• provide software upgrades for at least 3 years after purchase.
Total value (estimated)
- £170,000 excluding VAT
- £204,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 December 2025 to 31 March 2026
- 4 months
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 38433000 - Spectrometers
Contract locations
- UKC - North East (England)
- UKD - North West (England)
- UKE - Yorkshire and the Humber
- UKF - East Midlands (England)
- UKG - West Midlands (England)
- UKH - East of England
- UKI - London
- UKJ - South East (England)
- UKK - South West (England)
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
20 October 2025, 5:00pm
Tender submission deadline
3 November 2025, 12:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Tender responses must be submitted to procurement@nationalarchives.gov.uk, as specified in the ITT documentation.
The National Archives' website address is www.nationalarchives.gov.uk
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
7 November 2025
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Product and system requirements | Quality | 40% |
| Price | Price | 20% |
| Training provision | Quality | 10% |
| Service Level Agreement | Quality | 10% |
| Warranty | Quality | 10% |
| Environmental benefits | Quality | 10% |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Contracting authority
The National Archives
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PTBZ-4379-JQQX
Kew
Richmond
TW9 4DU
United Kingdom
Region: UKI75 - Hounslow and Richmond upon Thames
Organisation type: Public authority - central government