Objectives

The primary objective is to appoint a qualified supplier to provide liquid nitrogen thermo-flasks for laboratory storage and transport. Bids will be evaluated using a weighted scoring model allocating 80% to price competitiveness and 20% to socio-economic preference goals, in compliance with the Preferential Procurement Framework Act of 2000.

Scope

The tender covers the supply of two cryogenic container variants:

• 10-Litre Liquid Nitrogen Thermo-Flask
• 2-Litre Liquid Nitrogen Thermo-Flask

Delivery quantities will be determined upon contract award. The supplier must furnish fully compliant units accompanied by all mandated manufacturer documentation, certificates, and product imagery.

Technical Requirements

Both flask capacities must meet identical core engineering and safety specifications:

• Construction: Vacuum-insulated, double-walled vessel.
• Inner Vessel: Corrosion-resistant stainless steel or manufacturer-approved cryogenic-compatible material.
• Outer Casing: Durable, impact-resistant protective shell.
• Operating Temperature: Rated for approximately −196 °C.
• Insulation: High-efficiency vacuum insulation to minimise nitrogen evaporation rates.
• Neck Opening: Optimised for safe filling and pouring operations.
• Closure: Insulating lid or stopper specifically engineered for liquid nitrogen; must not form a pressure-tight seal.
• Handling: Secure ergonomic handles or trolley-compatible mounting (10L); stable carrying grip (2L).
• Safety: Cryogenic-rated design incorporating passive venting to eliminate pressure buildup risks during standard use.
• Accessories & Documentation: Compatible lids/stoppers, manufacturer-supplied accessories, original technical datasheets, Certificates of Analysis (COA), product brochures, complete specification sheets, operating instructions, safety guidelines, and clear product photographs.

Skills & Compliance Requirements

Bidders must demonstrate administrative, legal, and commercial readiness through strict adherence to national procurement standards:

• Complete and sign the SBD4 Bidder’s Disclosure form, certifying no state employment conflicts, no collusive bidding arrangements, and no prior involvement in specification drafting.
• Submit the SBD6.1 Preference Points Claim Form with verified documentary proof for socio-economic goals.
• Provide original manufacturer technical datasheets, COAs, or detailed specification sheets alongside product images for each quoted item.
• Ensure the entity is not listed on the Register for Tender Defaulters or List of Restricted Suppliers.
• Accept and comply with the General Conditions of Contract (July 2010) governing government procurement.
• Submit all quotations exclusively via the designated procurement portal; email submissions are strictly prohibited.

Key Terms & Definitions

80/20 Preference Point System: A procurement evaluation framework where 80% of the total score is derived from the lowest acceptable tender price, and 20% is allocated to specific socio-economic goals. Price points are calculated using a standardized formula relative to the lowest qualifying bid.

Socio-Economic Goals: Preference points are awarded for verified Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) credentials: 10 points for ≥51% black ownership, 8 points for ≥30% women ownership, and 2 points for confirmed disability status. Failure to submit supporting documentation results in immediate disqualification.

Non-Pressure-Tight Seal Requirement: Liquid nitrogen continuously evaporates at ambient temperatures. Flasks must feature vented closures to safely release expanding gas; airtight seals would cause catastrophic pressure accumulation and potential vessel rupture.

SBD Forms: Standard South African public procurement declarations. SBD4 verifies bidder integrity and conflict-of-interest disclosures, while SBD6.1 formalizes claims for preferential procurement points under the 2022 Preferential Procurement Regulations.