Multi-Nozzle 3D Extrusion Bioprinter

Please provide a detailed description of the notice you are adding:

The purpose of this PIN is to investigate market options for purchasing a 3D bioprinter with multiple extrusion printheads for bioprinting cell-laden hydrogels, which will support work in vascularized tissue engineering.

The University is looking to purchase a multi-nozzle, extrusion 3D bioprinter for thermally bioprinting cell-laden hydrogels within a self-contained sterile environment to support a number of research projects.

Please note: this requirement is for a Bio Printer. This is not for printers of plastics/metals or non-extrusion bioprinters.

Grant funding is confirmed and is expected to be available in April 2023. We are looking to have a bioprinter installed in May 2023.

Delivery is required (incl. installation and training) within 5 weeks of sending the Purchase Order. Due to funding restrictions, the Maximum value for the complete package including warranty is £45,000 excluding VAT.

Essential criteria:

1. Can print cell-laden hydrogels at different speeds and pressures.
2. Has capacity for at least three independent printheads that can be automatically calibrated.
3. Is supplied with at least three printheads, of which at least one is temperature-controlled (~4-40°C).
4. Has a temperature-controlled printing bed (~4-40°C).
5. Is standalone with a built-in computer, user interface, and compressor.
6. Provides a sterile environment without a biosafety cabinet.
7. Can be delivered within five weeks of ordering.
8. Can provide on-site installation and training within five weeks of ordering.
9. Extends patent protection to customers, to ensure freedom-to-operate within the bioprinting field for commercial applications.

Desirable criteria:

1. Option to fit photocuring printheads with at least three wavelengths.
2. Option to fit thermoplastic printheads.

The maximum budget of £45,000 should include the bioprinter and printheads, shipping costs, at least 3 years warranty, on-site installation, and on-site training. The equipment must comply with CE/UKCA Standards with a UK plug.

The procurement will be made under The University of Bristol Terms and Conditions. There will not be any negotiations on any of the substantive terms of the Conditions of Contract.

Interested providers are invited to respond to this PIN by sending a short email by close of business 5th April 2023. The email should include the following information: compliance to Essential & Desirable criteria and UK standards; Energy Usage and other Sustainability benefits; Delivery Lead-times; Shipping & Installation information; System Support & Frequency of service intervals; Training; Any Other relevant information.