Squeeze roll applicator

The Maine Department of Transportation Fleet Service is requesting bids for one heavy-duty squeeze roll applicator to apply reflective sheeting to sign blanks, with bids due January 30, 2009. Award will be made to the lowest responsible bidder considering best value to the state, with a tie-break preference for in-state vendors or those offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine.

The applicator must be capable of processing substrates up to 60 inches wide and 2 inches thick, with a 1 hp DC motor offering variable speed control from 0 to 35 feet per minute, reversible drive with dynamic braking, 6-inch by 64-inch laminating rolls with digital gap display, and dual conveyor systems (5-foot infeed and 10-foot outfeed). The equipment must include emergency stop features, adjustable edge guides, and optional extrusion processing and infrared heater packages. Delivery is to Maine DOT Fleet Service at 105 Capitol Street, Augusta, Maine 04330.

The successful bidder must maintain a parts inventory within Maine capable of 95 percent availability within 48 hours for standard parts and 24 hours for expendable items, and must certify service facility capabilities within the state at time of bid. Bidders must submit manufacturer's brochures, specification sheets, a complete parts list with manufacturer numbers, operator's and repair manuals, and a parts availability proposal. The contract includes manufacturer's standard warranty effective upon in-service date and a minimum of eight hours on-site operator training. The state reserves the right to perform warranty work in-house except for major engine, transmission, and axle work, with costs billed to the manufacturer or dealer. All bids must include shipping and delivery charges; the state is exempt from federal and Maine state sales and use taxes. Bidders must clearly identify any exceptions to specifications on a separate document.