Spreader Control Systems & Hydraulics

Maine Department of Transportation is requesting bids for spreader control systems and hydraulic components to outfit tandem axle trucks for winter road maintenance operations, with bids due February 16, 2012. The procurement covers an initial requirement to equip thirty-five trucks during 2012–2013, with an option to outfit up to thirty-five additional units in 2014–2015 at the same unit prices quoted in the initial bid.

The core system comprises a Cirrus spreader controller (or approved equivalent) with combination display and Uni-Grip three-axis proportional joystick, supporting hardware including wiring, sensors, junction boxes, and road temperature sensors, and directional control valves in six configurations: 7-section manual, 8-section manual, 9-section manual, 12-section electrically controlled, and 13-section electrically controlled versions. Specifications also reference a Sauer Danfoss PVG32 directional control valve (or approved equal) and Eaton 420 Piston Pump (or approved equal) with pressure ratings up to 5,000 psi and flow ratings up to 35 gpm. The system must operate granular spreaders with auger/conveyor, spinner, pre-wetting systems, and liquid anti-icing systems with three booms, supporting ground speed-oriented closed or open loop operation. Estimated line-item quantities span approximately twelve 7-section, twelve 8-section, seven 9-section, and four 12-section units. All bidders must document successful market utilization of the proposed technology for a minimum of three years.

Training is mandatory, delivered by factory-certified trainers for a minimum of four hours within three MaineDOT regions between October and December annually for five years, with separate pricing required. Manufacturers must provide a standard one-year warranty from the in-service date. Delivery is to MaineDOT's Wade Street facility in Augusta, Maine, with all transportation costs included in the bid. Award will be made to the lowest responsible bidder offering best overall value; in-state vendors and those offering Maine-manufactured commodities receive preference in tie situations. Electronic bid submission is required by 2:00 p.m. local time on the closing date. The State reserves the right to increase or decrease quantities by up to 10%.