How to win: National Standard Force Calibration Machine

About this contract

NPL is seeking to engage with suppliers who can support the development of a new national standard force machine providing applied forces to at least 12 MN (1,200 tonne force) with an accuracy of 0.01% of applied load. We are looking to gain understanding with suppliers of components, systems and engineering integration services likely to be required to progress the design concept of a unique UK test and calibration capability. Our requirements are yet to be fully defined, budget is still to be secured, and at this stage we wish to understand the current art of the possible and explore the feasibility and potential cost of design options. We are keen to talk with organisations with capability aligned to: • Low noise, servo-hydraulic control systems • Precision machining (large metallic components) • Testing machine manufacture • Pressure sensing and pressure control • Weights and weight handling systems This is not an evaluation exercise and nothing in this activity will limit the opportunity to engage in any follow on ITT.

How to win contracts like this

• ✓Answer against the marking scheme, not the question text — NPL Management Limited scores each response, so map your evidence to the published criteria and weightings.
• ✓At £2,500,000, expect quality and social value to carry a large share of the score — price alone rarely wins goods work.
• ✓Show recent, comparable delivery: name similar goods contracts you've delivered for public bodies, with measurable outcomes.
• ✓Start early: it closes 28 May 2026 and a strong bid takes iteration.

BidWriter drafts your responses from your company profile, scores them against the marking scheme, and tracks your whole pipeline. Free to start — no card needed.

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