Furnishing and Installation of a Gas Kiln

College of DuPage, Community College District No. 502 is requesting proposals for furnishing and installation of one industrial-grade gas kiln under RFP 2027-R0001, with sealed proposals due October 6, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Central Time. Vendors must be certified with the Illinois Department of Central Management Services at time of bid submission and demonstrate participation in the State of Illinois Business Enterprise Program with an aspirational goal of 30% minority, female, and disability-owned business participation.

The kiln must have 8–10 cubic feet capacity, minimum 2400°F operating temperature, updraft design, and fit within a 50-inch-wide door opening. Required features include high-temperature safety controls, oxygen probe, pyrometer, draft induction fan, and operation on 120-volt AC power and natural gas. The kiln will support ceramics instruction in Glaze Chemistry and Alternative Firing courses, enabling students to develop proficiency in manual firing techniques and atmospheric reduction control.

Deliverables include manufacturing to approved specifications; fully insured transport to 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 with offloading via liftgate or forklift; rigging and placement to final footprint; final gas and electrical utility tie-ins; on-site dry-fire testing with burner functionality and draft calibration verification; and minimum four hours of operational and safety training for faculty and staff. Vendors must indicate pricing for optional removal and disposal of the existing Alpine Gas Kiln (#50405).

Proposals are evaluated on technical compliance with specifications (35%), warranty and service support (15%), delivery and installation timeline (5%), vendor qualifications and references (10%), total cost including equipment, freight, installation, startup, training, and warranties (30%), and demonstrated BEP commitment (5%). A non-mandatory pre-proposal Zoom meeting was held September 22, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Central Time. Questions were due September 23, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. Central Time. The College anticipates Board approval by November 19, 2026. Vendors must provide proof of commercial general liability insurance with $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate limits, automobile liability insurance with matching limits, and workers' compensation insurance. Prevailing wage requirements may apply to installation labor per Illinois Department of Labor standards.