Near-infrared spectrometer for dairy forage research(UW-MAD)[20-0085]

The University of Wisconsin-Madison, located in Dane County and the City of Madison, is seeking to procure a near-infrared spectrometer for dairy forage research through a Request for Bid (RFB) process. The procurement targets a bench-top near-infrared (NIR) instrument specifically designed for high-throughput phenotyping of agricultural samples, with strict technical requirements including a wavelength range of 400-2500 nanometers and operation in reflectance measurement mode. The spectrometer must be capable of analyzing multiple feed categories such as vegetable by-products, protein meals, cereals, grains, animal by-products, and fishmeal, with prediction capabilities for parameters like dry matter, crude protein, NDF, ADF, and starch compositions. The RFB was issued on March 30, 2020, with written questions due by April 6, 2020, and bid responses required by April 13, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. CDT. Evaluation criteria will include lowest extended net total price, timeliness of delivery, and the instrument's alignment with the University's research needs. The University reserves the right to require oral presentations and product demonstrations before making an award, with bid prices remaining firm for sixty days from the bid opening date.

The procurement includes preferences for certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Woman-Owned Businesses (WBE), and Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (DVB) that submit qualified bids within five percent of the apparent low bid. While no specific incumbent vendor is mentioned, the RFB indicates flexibility in manufacturer selection, with alternative instruments from manufacturers like Bruker acceptable if they meet technical specifications. The successful contractor must provide on-site service and maintenance, with replacement parts available within five days and service calls acknowledged by noon the following business day. The contractor is required to maintain appropriate insurance coverage, with the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System listed as an additional insured. While no precise budget range is specified, the procurement involves a sophisticated scientific instrument with comprehensive service requirements. Payment terms are set at Net 30 days following successful acceptance testing, and the contractor must supply manufacturer-trained personnel and provide a minimum manufacturer's standard warranty.