The goal of this Request for Proposal (RFP) is to procure a Laser Flash Apparatus (LFA) and Dilatometer for use in materials science research.
The LFA is required to measure the thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of solids, in monolithic or powder form, and liquids and gels. This equipment will be used at the initial onset primarily for the characterization the thermal properties of materials that could be used for phase change thermal storage media as well as future testing in general material science.
The Dilatometer will be used to examine the change in volume of samples as their temperature changes. The samples will be metallic (both ferrous and non-ferrous) and of phase change thermal storage materials.
Proponents may quote on one of the Laser Flash Apparatus (LFA) or the Dilatometer, or both items. Partial bids will be considered. The Laser Flash Apparatus (LFA) or the Dilatometer will be evaluated separately. McMaster reserves the right to award each item to different proponent, or both to the same proponents. Proponents should advise within their bid if any costs savings incurred if they are awarded both items.
A Proposal must include, or conform with, the following Mandatory Requirements:
For the Laser Flash Apparatus:
1.The system must allow for testing within a vacuum, inert gas or oxidizing environment.
2.The instrument must allow for measurements from 25oC to over 1100 oC
3.The system must have sample holders capable of analyzing solid samples 25.4 mm and 12.7 mm in diameter. It must also have sample holders to analyze liquids, and powders.
4.The sample holders must remain inert at the maximum temperature under the intended operating conditions of the apparatus.
5.The system must have the capability of measuring the thermal diffusivity down to 0.01 mm2/s.
6.The system must have the capability of measuring thermal conductivity from 0.1 to over 1000 W/m·K.
7.The LFA must meet the requirements of ASTM E1461–13 or an equivalent standard.
8.The Laser Flash System must have the capability to deliver variable energy
9.The equipment must be CSA approved, and operate on North American standard voltages, 115/120 VAC or 230/240 VAC at 60 Hz.
And/or for the Dilatometer:
10.Must test standard, solid dilatometer samples (4mm diameter, 10mm long)
11.Must be able to test solid, liquid, and powder samples
12.Must have controlled heat and cooling
13.Must test from room temperature to 1000 °C at a minimum
14.Must meet the equipment requirements of ASTM E228-17
15.Must heat at a minimum rate of 40 °C/s
16.Must cool at a minimum rate of 40 °C/s
17.Must allow for testing in an inert gas, vacuum or oxidizing atmosphere
18.Must have sample holders that remain inert at the maximum temperature under the intended operating conditions of the apparatus.
19.Must be CSA approved , and operate on North American standard voltages, 115/120 VAC or 230/240 VAC at 60 Hz.
