Purchase of Asphalt Laboratory Oven for TxDOT Lubbock District (Highway District 05)

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), specifically the Lubbock District (Highway District 05), is seeking to procure an Asphalt Laboratory Oven through Invitation for Bid (IFB) No. 601340000060972. The procurement involves two Troxler Model #4740 ICO NCAT Ignition Ovens and an associated Starter Kit, designed for precise asphalt content testing. The laboratory oven must meet rigorous specifications, including a main chamber with minimum dimensions of 13 inches wide, 12 inches high, and 19 inches deep, capable of accommodating sample sizes up to 5 pounds and operating at temperatures of 375°C. The equipment must comply with testing standards TxDOT Tex-236-F, ASTM D6307, and AASHTO T308, and will undergo a comprehensive acceptance test requiring 15 consecutive failure-free calendar days of operation. The solicitation was released on April 22, 2025, with a close date of May 6, 2025, at 3:00 PM Central Time, and questions from potential vendors must be submitted by April 29, 2025. TxDOT will evaluate responses using a best value procurement approach, focusing on the lowest price and the respondent's ability to meet specified requirements.

The procurement does not appear to have specific set-aside designations or restrictions on vendor types, and vendors must submit responses through the Bonfire procurement portal. Respondents must complete several mandatory documents, including an Execution of Bid form, Texas Family Code Schedule, and Bid Table, with requirements for disclosing ownership information and compliance with child support obligations. The contract includes an Early Payment Program that offers vendors expedited invoice processing and potential financial benefits. Manufacturers must provide a 12-month warranty covering 100% parts and labor, with the equipment being required to be new and not used, demonstrator, prototype, remanufactured, reconditioned, or discontinued models. While no specific award value is explicitly stated, the procurement is for high-precision laboratory equipment critical to TxDOT's asphalt testing capabilities. The delivery must be made to the TxDOT Lubbock District Headquarters at 135 E Slaton Hwy, Lubbock, TX 79404, with a tentative contract award date of May 9, 2025.