Anaerobic and Hypoxic Chambers(UW-MAD)[20-0096]

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is seeking bids for the procurement of specialized scientific equipment, specifically three glove box chambers consisting of two anaerobic systems and one hypoxic/oxygen control system for the Department of Medicine. The chambers must have specific technical requirements, including clear flexible PVC construction, pressed polished PVC fronts, temperature control to 37 degrees Celsius, and a central airlock with at least 39 liters of pass-through space. The equipment must maintain anaerobic conditions below 5 ppm oxygen using hydrogen gas and palladium catalyst technology, include replaceable gloves changeable in 30 seconds or less, and incorporate H2 and O2 gas monitors with adjustable alarms. Written questions were due May 22, 2020, with final bids required by June 1, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. CDT. Evaluation criteria include the lowest extended net total price judged to be in the University's best interest, with bidders required to demonstrate three years of prior experience, manufacturer authorization, and provide three client references.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations, though the University encourages the use of Wisconsin-certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), and Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (DVB) subcontractors. Bidders must submit pricing on an Itemized Bid List, with unit list prices, unit net prices, and extended net total for all equipment, installation, and training. Pricing must be FOB Destination Installed, including all delivery charges, freight, insurance, setup, and instruction manual costs. The University qualifies for governmental and educational discounts, which must be reflected in unit pricing. Bids will remain firm for 60 days from the opening date, with payment terms of Net 30 days following acceptance and testing within 30 days of installation. A manufacturer's standard warranty is required, along with unlimited callback maintenance service during business hours (8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday). No specific contract value or budget range was disclosed in the procurement documents.