Replacement of Air Dryers and Air Compressor at Ford and Lomas Plants

Background
The University of New Mexico (UNM) is seeking to replace critical air compressor and dryer equipment at its Ford and Lomas Plants. This initiative is driven by the need to enhance reliability and efficiency in delivering air to utility plant equipment and associated systems across the university campus. The existing air compressor at the Ford Plant has been operational for over 35 years, necessitating an upgrade to prevent unplanned shutdowns and damage to sensitive equipment.

Work Details
The contract involves the following specific tasks:
1. Replacement of existing air dryers at both the Ford Plant and Lomas Plant with new externally heated desiccant dryers.
2. Replacement of a 35-plus-year-old air compressor at the Ford Plant with a new Sullair single-stage LS90S spiral valve water-cooled air compressor.

These upgrades are essential for minimizing moisture in the air supply, thereby protecting pneumatic controllers and other equipment from freezing and damage.

Period of Performance
The contract is expected to be executed following the approval process, with a specific timeline yet to be determined based on procurement regulations.

Place of Performance
The work will be performed at the University of New Mexico's Ford Plant and Lomas Plant, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Bidder Requirements
The proposed vendor for this project is Hitachi Air Center, which specializes in Sullair equipment and has been responsible for annual maintenance on existing compressors and dryers. The procurement is based on sole source justification due to proprietary components that are only available from Hitachi Air Center.