How to evaluate vendor bids I
In this column, we follow up on the July 2005 topic (how to write a request for a pneumatic conveying system quotation) with information on how to evaluate vendor bids. [Editor's note: See past "Pneumatic points to ponder..." columns for information on a range of topics, including pneumatic conveying theory, design principles, system types, system components, applications, and troubleshooting.
Before you can start to evaluate the vendor bids, make sure you enlist the help of several people in your plant. For instance, members of your operations and maintenance departments can give valuable input about whether all the bids have addressed ongoing operations and maintenance concerns. If the conveying system will interface with your plant's distribution or bulk loadout operations, have those operators participate in evaluating the bids, as well, so their concerns about the system's effect on their operations are addressed.