Scope
Reference
CEFAS25-138
Description
The Cefas Chemicals Programme, primarily funded by Defra, undertakes research, testing, and advisory activities to support UK chemical risk assessment and regulatory obligations. The programme underpins national commitments regarding chemical safety, endocrine disruption, and environmental protection, with a focus on the development of test guidelines, endocrine disruption studies, ecotoxicology, and the advancement of new approach methodologies that aim to minimise animal testing.
Accurate weighing of various chemicals is essential to support our experimental work. Currently, the laboratory houses a microbalance that was acquired over 15 years ago and is now discontinued. Securing a suitable replacement has become a priority to ensure continuity of operations.
This RFQ seeks proposals for the supply of a high-precision microbalance that meets the specifications outlined below. The new equipment will enable Cefas to continue delivering robust scientific outputs while supporting sustainability and operational efficiency.
Scope of Requirements:
1. Technical Requirement
The microbalance must meet the following requirements:
• Draft shield: Automatic preferred (manual acceptable if necessary),
• Maximum capacity: 120g
• Readability:
o Fine range: minimum 0.002 mg
o Coarse range: minimum 0.005 mg
• Repeatability:
o Fine range: minimum 0.005 mg
o Coarse Range: minimum 0.01 mg
• Capacity to sustain small vibration (due to proximity to a fume hood)
• Dimensions: The equipment must not exceed 52 cm in length, 30 cm in width, and 24.5 cm in height.
• Compliance with UK/EU safety standards for laboratory equipment.
2. Environmental Considerations
• Unit should have an ultralow power consumption.
• Supplier to manage packaging responsibly, ensuring reuse or recycling wherever possible. If packaging removal is not included, provide clear guidance on environmentally friendly disposal options.
3. Installation
• Comprehensive installation and setup instructions
• Any calibration requirements and guidance
• Details of tools or accessories needed for installation
• Safety considerations for handling and positioning the equipment
4. Ease of maintenance
• Clear guidance on routine maintenance and calibration procedures
• A technical support contact when required
5. Parts, Consumables and Updates
• Availability and short lead times of spare parts and consumables
• All parts must be covered under warranty in the event of failure
6. Warranties and Guarantees
• Warranties will start from the point of acceptance of delivery and once the goods have been tested to ensure they are in working order. Cefas expect minimum warranty period of 12 months to be included in the purchase.
• Warranties will include replacements of parts in the event of failure.
• Options for on-site support and/or remote assistance should be available.
Total value (estimated)
- £29,000 excluding VAT
- £34,800 including VAT
Below the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 9 February 2026 to 12 March 2027
- 1 year, 1 month, 4 days
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 38000000 - Laboratory, optical and precision equipments (excl. glasses)
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
16 January 2026, 1:00pm
Tender submission deadline
23 January 2026, 12:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Award criteria
Technical 60%, Social Value 10%, Pricing 30%
Procedure
Procedure type
Below threshold - open competition
Contracting authority
CENTRE FOR ENVIRONMENT, FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE SCIENCE
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PPGW-5299-JGTN
Pakefield Road
Lowestoft
NR33 0HT
United Kingdom
Contact name: Laura Anderson
Email: procure@cefas.gov.uk
Region: UKH14 - Suffolk
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government