CEFAS26-128 Toxicology rack with associated RO unit for flow through chemical exposures

This equipment will be critical in delivering current and future work that support key government policies on both creating tools for modern toxicology and animal use in science. It is projected to be heavily used over the next decade where NAMs (new approach methodologies) need to be developed and validated. The programme that is currently relying on such equipment is the Defra Chemicals Programme and the associated EU Horizon project PARC (where funds are received via UKRI).

Scope of Requirements:

1. Technical Requirement

1.1 Static and flow through operation modes that support controlled Chemical exposure within each tank while avoiding continuous recirculation (pre-set valves should permit independent regulation of water flow to each individual tank)

1.2 Programmable water exchange capability supporting stable environmental conditions while minimizing disturbance to the fish. Water flow valve must provide clear visual indication of functionality whilst water flow rate and water replacement settings should be easily set, preferably via a touchscreen, and should be able to vary amongst each complete row of tanks.

1.3 The exchange water volume should be flexible, meaning ability to conduct a single exchange at a specific time or recurring hourly exchange.

1.4 System should have a minimum three row capacity, holding up to 100L water in racks that are designed to hold tanks of variable size (3.5L -10L), where each row is fitted with an independent solenoid valve.

1.5 The system can maintain stable water quality by automatically controlling key water parameters, including temperature, pH and conductivity.

1.6 The system should include a suitable heating system and two membrane dosing pumps to support pH and conductivity control.

2. Environmental Considerations
3. Unit should have a low power consumption.
4. 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.
5. Hardware, Software, PC, Licenses, operating systems

3.1 System must be closed with its own controls and no need to be linked to Cefas machines

4. Installation

4.1 The Supplier will be responsible for delivery and installation including basic training on operation.

5. Ease of maintenance

5.1 The system must be easy to maintain with relatively little effort for cleaning

6. Parts, Consumables and Updates

6.1 The system must use parts and consumables that are readily available and inexpensive to replace when necessary.

7. Warranty, Guarantees and Servicing

7.1 Warranties will start from the point of acceptance of delivery and once the goods have been tested to ensure they are in working order. Cefas expect minimum warranty period of 36 months to be included in the purchase.