B-27406 Gas Chromatographs Amendment 2.docx

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Gas Chromatographs

22-532EPA-LAB53-B-27406

Amendment 2 This amendment is to provide questions and answers that have been received thus far. Because these questions and answers may materially affect the bid, vendors must sign and return this acknowledgement with your bid.

Vendor acknowledgement of Amendment 2 Vendor signature: ________________________________ Date: ___________

1. Sub-sections 1.2.1.4 (EPA method 8141) and 1.2.2.4 (8081/8082) sub Section A, iv, states: Modular in design Question: Since this is a standard test and a dedicated configuration, why is this required?

Agency Response: By requesting modular in design, we are asking for a system where the main components such as autosamplers, detectors and inlets are easy to change out or exchange when needed.

2. Sub-sections 1.2.1.4 (EPA method 8141) and 1.2.2.4 (8081/8082) sub Section A, vi, a states: Pressure Range of 0-150 psi Question: Meeting 150 psi, is not required by this application and it is not required by the EPA method. The column allowed by the EPA method with the greatest back pressure is a 30 m x 0.25 mm with a recommended flow rate of 1 mL / min for this column. At the highest oven temperature suggested by the method which is 300 degrees C, the greatest pressure required to meet this flow rate is 25 psi. If the laboratory wanted to use 2 mL / min, this would require only 40 psi at 300 degrees C. Therefore, why is 150 psi a bid specification when it is not required to perform the application?

Agency Response: Laboratory requires flexibility with the system. The systems are being purchased for specific methods, but we are also anticipating future needs.

3. Sub-sections 1.2.1.4 (EPA method 8141) and 1.2.2.4 (8081/8082) sub Section A, vi, b states: Total Flow Range of 0-200 mL/min for nitrogen, 0-1000 mL/min for hydrogen and 0-1000 mL/min for helium.

Question: This is not a requirement of the application and extremely unusually high total flows. In addition, since sensitivity is required, this high flow would compromise detection limits. Why is this a specification in the bid?

Agency Response: The laboratory is not limiting requirements to current applications but looking ahead to future needs.

4. Sub-sections 1.2.1.4 (EPA method 8141) and 1.2.2.4 (8081/8082) sub Section C, i, states: oven Internal dimensions not less than 28 cm x 31 cm x 16 cm.

Question: This is not a requirement of the EPA method or a requirement for success of this application. Actually, a smaller oven provides enhance stability and uniformity. Why does the laboratory feel this is required?

Agency Response: Need room for two columns and room to remove and install columns. We can accept +/- 1 cm in all dimensions.

5. Sub-Section 1.2.1.5 (EPA method 8141) and 1.2.2.5 (8081/8082) subsection J states: User selectable injection depths Question: “is there a particular reason why you require the capability of the syringe to achieve various depths within the vial?”

Agency Response: The laboratory requires this ability for future applications.