Gas chromatograph (GC) time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometer (MS) (US-MAD) [19-0032]

The University of Wisconsin-Madison, acting through its Purchasing Services on behalf of the Great Lakes Bioenergy Center, is seeking bids for a sophisticated Gas Chromatograph (GC) Time of Flight (TOF) Mass Spectrometer (MS) system. The procurement is specifically for a benchtop GC/MS TOF unit with comprehensive injector capabilities, including liquid, headspace, and solid-phase microextraction (SPME) injectors. The equipment must meet precise technical specifications, including a detection limit of 20 femtograms and acquisition rates up to 50Hz, while fitting within a 72-inch length by 36-inch width footprint. Bidders must demonstrate five years of experience in chromatography and spectrometry equipment, provide a client reference list from three comparable institutions, and showcase maintenance and repair capabilities. Written questions were due by December 13, 2018, with bid responses required by 2:00 p.m. CST on December 19, 2018. The University reserves the right to request oral presentations, product demonstrations, and vendor site visits prior to making an award. Evaluation will focus on the lowest extended net total that best serves the University's interests, with bid prices required to remain firm for 60 days from the bid opening date.

The procurement includes supplier diversity preferences that provide advantages to certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) and Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (DVB), allowing these vendors to be awarded if their bids are within 5 percent of the lowest qualified bid. Bidders must be either original manufacturers, authorized distributors, or dealers with manufacturer-authorized service and repair capabilities. The contract requires comprehensive warranty documentation, maintenance of manufacturer-trained personnel, and optional maintenance contract provisions for years two through four post-warranty. Delivery will be to 1552 University Avenue in Madison, Wisconsin, with all prices to be quoted as FOB Destination and Installed, inclusive of packing, freight, insurance, setup, instruction, and operation manuals. The delivery must comply with the University's 30-foot truck access restriction. The contract will be subject to standard University terms and conditions, federal acquisition regulations (FAR), and Wisconsin statutes, including nondiscrimination and affirmative action requirements. While no specific award value is mentioned, the technical complexity and specialized nature of the equipment suggest a significant investment in advanced scientific instrumentation.