Explanation
BACKGROUND: This legislation authorizes the Director of Finance and Management to enter into a contract with Seal Analytical, Inc. for the purchase of a complete nutrient auto analyzer system including installation and training for the Division of Power and Water (Water). This unit will be used by our Water Quality Assurance Laboratory (WQAL) section for compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act. The primary testing parameters are for nitrate, nitrite, and phosphorus in drinking water. This instrument will allow the WQAL to maintain its OEPA certification.
The Purchasing Office advertised and solicited competitive bids in accordance with Section 329.06 (Solicitation SA004490). Forty-eight (48) vendors (46 MAJ, 1MBE, 1 FBE) were solicited and three (3) bids (3 MAJ) were received and opened on July 19, 2012. OI Corporation was the apparent low bid of $39,925.50. They, however, do not meet the following specifications:
Pump capacity offered 8 or 16 pump tunes, specifications called for 28
Pump offered did not have parts that currently would work with current equipment in the lab creating additional costs
Pump offered used plastic components specification called for glass. Plastic will break down when exposed to harsh chemicals used in the lab
Pump offered did not included a leak detector as specified in the bid
Pump did not allow the analysis of 3 chemicstries simultaneously as specified in the bid
Pump offered had a wavelength range of 420-880 nm, specifications called for a range of 350-900 nm
The second lowest bid was Seal Analytical Inc., at $44,521.00 and they meet our specifications. Therefore, the Division of Power and Water (Water) is recommending the award go to Seal Analytical, Inc. as the lowest responsive, responsible, and best bidder to meet our specifications. This award is for one (1) nutrient auto analyzer system. The total award will be for $44,521.00.
The company is not debarred according to the Excluded...
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