Purchase of High Throughput Sonication Systems (Covaris) including Associated Consumables and Maintenance

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, on behalf of the All Wales Genomics Service, requires the supply, installation, and maintenance of a high throughput sonication system manufactured by Covaris, Inc., utilising proprietary Adaptive Focused Acoustics (AFA) technology essential for reproducible and consistent Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows. The contract scope covers the delivery of the instrument, associated consumables for three years, and a full warranty including servicing and repairs, with the option to extend for up to two additional years. The system must process samples in plate format to support NGS library preparation and expand somatic cancer testing capacity in Wales, achieving a minimum of 95% uptime availability (excluding planned maintenance), reproducibility across runs compliant with All Wales Genomics Service standards, and seamless compatibility with existing workflows. Supplier obligations include on-site delivery, installation, calibration, commissioning, and validation of performance; provision of initial training for technical staff; access to technical support and software or firmware updates; and guaranteed consumables supply for the full contract term. Performance will be monitored against key indicators, including ≥95% uptime, ≥98% QC compliance in NGS preparation, 24-hour initial response to service requests, and resolution or interim fix of critical failures within 72 hours. This contract is issued in compliance with public procurement regulations, acknowledging Covaris as the sole manufacturer of the required AFA-based technology.