CEFAS25-55 Contract for the supply of a Precision Cutting Machine

Cefas require a cutting machine to compliment a suite of cutting machines that contribute to the processing of over 60k otoliths annually. This machine will be mainly used for the sectioning of gadoid species sagittal otoliths embedded in epoxy resin. Due to the mean size of these otoliths Cefas uses a specialised mould different from other species, requiring a machine with increased table movement to capture all of the mould rows in use. Cefas requires any new machine to be versatile in the workpiece clamping/holding setup as occasionally other biological material will be sectioned dependant on active projects at the time.

Scope of Requirements: Cefas require a cutting machine that will produce top quality samples with precision accuracy. In order to reproduce the surface quality of otolith sections Cefas need to be able to replicate the cutting movement of the previous machine, therefore X, Y & Z-axis movement is necessary. Cefas are required to prepare samples from an expanding range of species from around the world. It is a requirement to develop new and innovative cutting methods in addition, to replicate protocols that are already in use by other institutes. These methods will enable Cefas to meet age determination validation requirements by producing clean, well defined annuli on sections which increases accuracy of reading for in-house readers and external QC partners. It is essential that the machine accommodates compatible discs that offer a high quality cut and that these discs are readily available.

1. Technical Requirement

1.1 Micrometer precision accuracy

1.2 Laser light technology for lining up samples

1.3 Servo-controlled X,Y & Z axis movement

1.4 Table with T-slot attachment capability

1.5 Single phase 240V 50Hz power supply

1.6 Variable speed motor, at least 300-3000rpm

1.7 Benchtop machine, no proprietary stands/supports

1.8 Fully enclosed cutting chamber

1.9 Fully adjustable coolant direction

1.10 Illuminated cutting chamber

1.11 External coolant fluid sump

1.12 Mist exhaust port present. Existing coolant mist removal system will attach

1.13 Large cutting chamber and table to hold Cefas standard sample blocks (115 x 76mm)

1.14 Programmable sectioning modes

1.15 Wide range of clamping tools

1.16 Accommodates good quality cutting discs for improved sample finish, that are readily available

1.17

2. Environmental Considerations

• Unit should have a low power consumption.
• Unit should be designed for reuse/remanufacture and of regenerative nature to eliminate waste where possible.
• Consideration of how packaging will be managed. Ideally at the time of installation the supplier will remove packaging and dispose of by ethical and environmentally friendly methods. Where possible packaging is to be re-used or recycled.
• Consideration of life cycle assessment for the equipment.

3. Hardware, Software, PC, Licenses, operating systems

3.1 The machine must be able to hold Cefas standard sample blocks (115 x 76mm)

3.2 The machine must have a Mist exhaust port present as Cefas existing coolant mist removal system may be required to be attached.

4. Compatibility with existing hardware/software/equipment

4.1 The machine must be able to hold Cefas standard sample blocks (115 x 76mm)

3.2 The machine must have a Mist exhaust port present as Cefas existing coolant mist removal system may be required to be attached.

5. Installation

5.1 Any user maintainable aspects of the system should be described in the bid submission. This is to include any limitations where there are no user serviceable aspects.

6. Ease of maintenance

6.1 Able to accommodate good quality cutting discs providing consistent high standard samples that are readily available.

6.2 Short lead time for deliveries.

6.3 Cefas require any potentially required parts and consumables to be available for at least the next 5 years.

7. Parts, Consumables and Updates

7.1 Warranties will start from the point of acceptance of delivery. Cefas expect minimum warranty period of 12 months to be included in the purchase.

7.2 Due to the waste resin buildup created in the cutting process Cefas require the machine to be serviced every 2 years as a minimum.

8. Warranties, Guarantees, Servicing

8.1 Warranties will start from the point of acceptance of delivery. Cefas expect minimum warranty period of at least 12 months to be included in the purchase.