Balanced Mix Design Load Frame

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) and the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC) are seeking qualified vendors to provide four Balanced Mix Design (BMD) Load Frame testing apparatuses through an Invitation for Bid (IFB) with solicitation number IFB605CO25000246. The procurement requires highly specialized testing equipment capable of analyzing asphalt specimens to determine cracking tolerance index, rutting tolerance index, and tensile strength ratio in accordance with ASTM D8225, ASTM D8360, and AASHTO T283 standards. Each load frame must include specific technical components such as an axial loading device with a minimum 25 kN compression capacity, load cells, interchangeable loading strips, support cradles, displacement measuring devices, and integrated data acquisition systems with comprehensive software capabilities. The bid period opens August 1, 2024, and closes August 15, 2024, at 2:00 PM CDT, with bids to be submitted electronically through the MissouriBUYS system. The contract period will run from the date of award through June 30, 2025, with the equipment to be delivered to four separate MoDOT locations in St. Joseph, Hannibal, Jefferson City, and Sikeston.

The solicitation has a 0% Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation goal, though DBE participation is encouraged, and Service-Disabled Veteran (SDV) and Service-Disabled Veteran Business (SDVE) vendors are welcome to submit bids. Bidders must provide equipment that is new, of current production, and manufactured domestically, with the solicitation invoking Buy American Act provisions that provide a 10% price preference for qualifying American-made products on purchases over $25,000. Manufacturers are required to provide a minimum 2-year warranty covering all equipment defects, with all shipping costs for repairs included at no additional cost to MoDOT. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the procurement involves four complex testing apparatuses with integrated technological components, suggesting a significant investment. The award will be made to the lowest and best responsive bidder that meets all mandatory specifications and requirements, with pricing to include all shipping, delivery, and freight costs incorporated into the unit price.