Helium purifier (UW-MAD) [19-0026]

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is soliciting bids for a helium purifier through a Request for Bid (RFB) issued by Purchasing Services for the Department of Facilities, Planning & Management. The procurement involves seven different helium purifier configurations, including automated and non-automated models with capacities ranging from 15,000 to 30,000 standard cubic feet per day, plus a dual bed continuous operation unit. Mandatory specifications for the purifiers include an inlet pressure of 1000-3000 psig, outlet pressure of 200-3000 psig, helium purity of at least 99.995%, ASME boiler and pressure vessel code compliance, liquid nitrogen cooling with integrated level controller, and a regeneration time of 12 hours or less. Bidders must submit three hard copies or one electronic copy of completed bids to Purchasing Services by 2:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time on October 19, 2018, with written questions due by October 15, 2018. The University reserves the right to conduct oral presentations, product demonstrations, and vendor site visits at its sole discretion prior to award, with the contract to be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.

The procurement does not specify any specific set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations. The University qualifies for governmental and educational discounts, which must be reflected in unit pricing. Contractors must maintain commercial liability insurance with minimum coverage of $1,000,000 and add the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System as an additional insured. The awarded contractor is required to provide manufacturer's standard warranty, maintenance, and repair services with a 72-hour initial service call response time and completion within two weeks, unlimited call-back maintenance during normal business hours, and access to replacement parts within five days. Payment terms are Net 30 days following acceptance of products, with the University reserving the right to structure payments in phases tied to milestones, not to exceed 50% payment prior to acceptance. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive technical specifications and warranty requirements suggest a significant investment in advanced helium purification technology for the University of Wisconsin-Madison.