Objectives

To appoint a qualified supplier to deliver cryogenic storage vessels for laboratory use. The procurement aligns with South Africa’s Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act, evaluating bids primarily on cost efficiency (80%) while allocating 20% to socio-economic empowerment targets.

Scope

Supply of one 10-litre and one 2-litre liquid nitrogen thermo-flask. The contract encompasses provision of all necessary accessories, manufacturer documentation, and adherence to the General Conditions of Contract (July 2010). Quotations must be accompanied by original technical datasheets, certificates of analysis, product brochures, complete specification sheets, and clear product images.

Technical Requirements

• Capacity: 10 litres and 2 litres respectively.
• Construction: Double-walled, vacuum-insulated vessels engineered for cryogenic applications.
• Materials: Inner vessel must be corrosion-resistant stainless steel or another manufacturer-approved cryogenic-compatible material. Outer casing must be durable and impact-resistant.
• Performance: Optimised for operation at approximately -196°C. High-efficiency vacuum insulation is mandatory to minimise liquid nitrogen evaporation.
• Design Features: Neck openings must facilitate safe filling and pouring. Closures must be insulating lids or stoppers specifically designed for cryogenic use; they must explicitly NOT form a pressure-tight seal to allow safe gas venting.
• Handling: The 10L flask requires secure handling features compatible with trolleys. The 2L flask requires a stable, ergonomic carrying handle or grip.
• Safety: Must incorporate safe venting mechanisms to eliminate pressure build-up risks during standard laboratory operations.
• Documentation: Submission of manufacturer datasheets, operating instructions, safety guidelines, and proof of compliance is strictly required.

Skills & Supplier Capabilities

As this is a goods supply tender, formal professional qualifications are not specified. Suppliers must demonstrate operational capability to source, manufacture, or distribute certified cryogenic equipment. Required competencies include familiarity with laboratory safety standards, proficiency in preparing mandatory compliance documentation (SBD forms, BBBEE certificates, technical datasheets), and a thorough understanding of South African public sector procurement regulations. Bidders must also possess valid business registration and the administrative capacity to meet strict submission deadlines and formatting requirements.

Key Terms & Product Explanations

• Liquid Nitrogen Thermo-Flask: A specialised insulated container engineered to store and transport liquid nitrogen at extreme cold temperatures (~-196°C). The vacuum insulation drastically reduces boil-off rates, while the non-sealed closure prevents dangerous pressure accumulation by allowing nitrogen gas to escape safely.
• 80/20 Preference Point System: A South African procurement evaluation model where 80% of scoring is based on competitive pricing, and 20% is awarded for specific transformation goals. Points are granted for verified black ownership (≥51%), women ownership (≥30%), and disability status.
• SBD4 & SBD6.1: Standardised South African government bidding forms. SBD4 discloses bidder relationships, state employment, and potential conflicts of interest. SBD6.1 claims preference points against socio-economic targets.
• BBBEE Certificate: Official documentation verifying a company’s Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment rating, used to validate ownership demographics for preference point allocation.