Bidder Inquiries

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Viewing inquiries for 04-0Y2104

Inquiry #1: “ARB production consists of proportioning:
The preblended liquids. Combine with the proportioned scrap tire rubber and high natural rubber simultaneously and mix for the specified time at specified temperatures.
The method and equipment for combining liquid and dry ingredients must enable the resident engineer to readily determine compliance with proportioning requirements for each material and the completed ARB. The district weights and measures coordinator (WMC) must approve all required equipment before use.”

In order to meet the OCT 2022 MPQP Manual Update publication, simultaneously mixing both rubber types require the rubber blending plant to have (2) rubber hoppers. One hopper would proportion the scrap tire rubber and the second hopper would proportion the High Natural Rubber. Without the presence of a second hopper, the data collection component of the required MPQP reporting does not align with the latest MPQP update.

On 4/3/2023 and 4/7/2023, District 4 WM’s approved a single hopper Asphalt Rubber Blending Plant setup at (2) separate locations within D4. This can be confirmed via the Weights and Measures Certified Material Plant List available on CDOT’s website. CDOT has responded in previous D4 pre-bid bidder inquiries that they would be enforcing the approved Oct 2022 MPQP Manual Update. The approval of the single hopper plant on 4/3 and 4/7 directly contradicts previous pre-bid responses and the OCT 2022 MPQP Manual update language. The guidance previously provided is causing confusion amongst AR Binder Suppliers and Hot Mix Facilities. This is potentially allowing an unfair bidding environment to exist and thrive as Dual Hopper Plants have twice the maintenance/calibration costs. Will D4 Weights and Measures continue to allow Single Hopper Asphalt Rubber Plants to operate within District limits? Please advise.

Inquiry submitted 05/30/2023

Response #1:The inquiry has been received and submitted for consideration.
Response posted 05/30/2023

Response #2:This issue is under review by HQ Construction at this time. Until a decision is made, the district is to approve both single and dual hopper plant setups.
Response posted 05/31/2023

The information provided in the responses to bidder inquiries is not a waiver of Section 2-1.07, "JOB SITE AND DOCUMENT EXAMINATION" of the Standard Specifications or any other provision of the contract, nor to excuse the contractor from full compliance with the contract. Bidders are cautioned that subsequent responses or contract addenda may change a previous response.