The USDA, Agricultural Research Service (ARS) intends to negotiate solely with Kusel Equipment Company, Watertown, WI, to purchase a Kusel 4MX Model 65 Vat capacity: 560 lbs., 65 gallons/245 liters; outside length: 47" overall/119.4cm; outside width: 33-3/8"/84.8cm; depth: 14-3/16"/36.0cm; ends: round with hex-shaped exterior. Accessories for 4MX Vat: Two Type B-4MX Stirring Paddles (2 Required), Two Forking Paddles (2 Required), Hand Curd Cutting Knives (Set of 2), and One Perforated Stainless Steel Strainer 11-1/2" High to fit contour of vat, with hooks to fit over vat rail for Wyndmoor, PA 19038. The purchase of the Kusel brand Cheese-processing vat and accessories is a sole source purchase based on the fact that this model is equipped with automated paddles which will allow for the proper mixing of the cheese product. In addition, these automated paddles can be set at variable speeds and duration which allows for flexibility in mixing speeds and duration depending on the desired type of cheese that is produced. This automated stirring ability ensures that each batch of cheese is processed in a consistent manner. Product consistency and reproducibility is essential for the types of research which will be conducted in our new center of excellence food processing laboratory. Kusel is the only manufacturer of the cheese-processing accessories which can be used with this vat. Companies with the demonstrated capability of providing this equipment must submit a descriptive statement, including descriptive literature, specifically addressing the equipment's component's and availability. The statement and literature must be submitted to the Contracting Office Address within 10 days of publication of this notice. This is not a request for proposal. No solicitation is available.

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