Pollen and plant tissue dryer(UW-MAD)[20-0063]

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is conducting a Request for Bid (RFB) for the Wisconsin Crop Innovation Center (WCIC) to procure a specialized Pollen and Plant Tissue Dryer. The procurement seeks a precise apparatus capable of drying plant materials including pollen, seeds, and seed embryos while maintaining aseptic conditions. The required unit must meet 28 detailed specifications, including precise humidity and temperature control (ranging from 32°F to 120°F), HEPA filter and UV light sterilization, PLC control, and compatibility with the building's Andover automation system. The dryer must accommodate 16 custom processing trays measuring 15.25 by 15.25 by 2.5 inches, with exterior dimensions not exceeding 11 feet in length, 4.5 feet in depth, and 5.8 feet in height. Written questions were due January 31, 2020, with bid submissions required by February 6, 2020, at 2:00 PM Central Standard Time. The university reserves the right to conduct product demonstrations and site visits at its discretion, with award determination based on a comprehensive evaluation of submitted bids.

The procurement encourages participation from Wisconsin-certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Woman-Owned Businesses (WBE), and Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (DVB), with specific participation goals of 5% for MBE, an unspecified percentage for WBE, and 1% for DVB. Bidders must demonstrate five years of experience in viable plant material drying or dehumidification and must be original manufacturers, authorized distributors, or dealer representatives with service and repair capabilities. A minimum one-year warranty covering parts, labor, and travel is required, along with unlimited call-back maintenance service during normal business hours. The university is seeking optional pricing for service contracts up to three years following warranty expiration. Bidders must provide certificates of insurance with minimum coverage of $1,000,000 for liability and property damage. Standard payment terms are Net 30 days following acceptance of goods and services, and the university qualifies for governmental and educational discounts, which must be reflected in quoted unit prices. While no specific budget range is mentioned, the procurement is for a single unit with delivery desired within eight weeks of bid award.