8000 New Treated Rail Cross-Ties

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting quotes for 8,000 new treated rail cross-ties, with quotes due April 12, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. local time via the AdvantageME procurement system. In cases of tied quotes, preference shall be given to in-state bidders or those offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine.

The ties shall be manufactured from mixed hardwoods (Oak, Beech, Birch, Cherries, and Hard Maples) with dimensions of 8 feet 6 inches in length and 6 inches by 8 inches in cross section; up to 30 percent of the order may be 6 inches by 7 inches. All ties must include anti-splitting end plates made of 18 gauge galvanized steel measuring 5 inches by 6 inches, with teeth extending at least 3/8 inches beyond the plate surface. Material must be sound, live timber that is straight, well-sawn, cut square at the ends, with completely removed bark. Ties must be air seasoned for 12 to 18 months in accordance with AREMA Specifications (alternative Vapor or Boulton drying processes permitted with MaineDOT approval), then treated to a retention of seven pounds per cubic foot using a 60/40 creosote coal tar solution per the latest AREMA Manual. Quality-control rejection criteria cover decay, holes exceeding 1/2 inch in diameter and 3 inches deep, large knots, shake greater than one-third the tie width, splits exceeding 5 inches long or 1/2 inch wide, and slanting grain exceeding 1:15. A minimum of 20 borer cores per treatment charge must verify adequate drying and proper preservative penetration, with test results provided to the MaineDOT project manager. All ties shall be shipped in bundles of 25 via rail car to Brunswick, Maine.

Pricing submissions must include separate unit prices with all trade or quantity discounts included, exclusive of Maine sales and use taxes. The State reserves the right to increase or decrease quantities ordered by up to 10 percent. Questions submitted more than 48 hours before bid closing will be considered valid. All transportation charges shall be prepaid and borne by the contractor.