Pasteurizer Hot Water Heating System (2023-UWMSN-00225-RFP)

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is conducting a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Pasteurizer Hot Water Heating System, identified as solicitation 2023-UWMSN-00225-RFP, for the Center for Dairy Research (CDR). The procurement seeks a comprehensive hot water heating skid with specific technical requirements, including two Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) installed in a wash-down panel, 316 stainless steel recirculation loop components, and associated heat exchange equipment. Deliverables must conform to precise specifications, such as a maximum skid footprint of 4' x 4', ability to pass through a five-foot-wide doorway, and compatibility with dairy processing applications including whole milk, raw cheese, yogurt mix, and cream cheese production. The system must operate with steam pressures of 60-80 psi, water temperatures up to 207 degrees Fahrenheit, and include specific component manufacturers like Fristam for recirculation pumps and Enerquip for stainless multi-tubes. Key deadlines include an optional site visit on May 18, 2023, at 9:00 AM, a question submission deadline of May 23, 2023, and final bid submissions due on June 1, 2023, at 2:00 PM, all to be submitted through the ShopUW+ online bidding platform.

While no specific set-aside designations or disadvantaged enterprise requirements are explicitly mentioned, the procurement appears open to qualified vendors capable of meeting the technical specifications. The project involves integration with existing dairy research facility infrastructure, specifically the Babcock Hall Dairy Plant, and will require coordination with the facility's current control systems using Ignition software. The university indicates flexibility for vendors in handling field wiring, programming, and commissioning, with the option to utilize CDR's subcontractor Ethos for control integration. Although a specific budget range is not provided, the comprehensive technical requirements and specialized nature of the heating system suggest a significant capital investment. Potential vendors should note that milestone payments may be negotiable, deviating from the standard full payment upon completion outlined in the original RFP. Interested bidders are directed to contact Carla Parker at Carla.parker@wisc.edu for any additional information or clarifications regarding the procurement.