4.1. Discussion on Truck and Loader Balancing

Try these first

1. 1.

   What factors determine the balance number of trucks?

   Hint

   Think about the operational times for the trucks and loaders.

2. 2.

   What is the formula for unit production cost?

   Hint

   Consider how we assess our spending versus our output.

3. 3.

   What is the balance number of trucks when the truck cycle time is 39.5 minutes and loader cycle time is 5.5 minutes?

   • 5.3
   • 6.18
   • 7.18

   Hint

   Use the formula: Truck Cycle Time / Loader Cycle Time.

4. 4.

   True or False: Increasing the number of trucks beyond the balance number always increases productivity.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the role of the loader.

5. 5.

   A construction site has a loader working for 8 hours and estimates a truck cycle time of 45 minutes and a loader cycle time of 6 minutes. How many trucks should they ideally use?

   Hint

   Remember, round for efficiency!

6. 6.

   Discuss the cost implications of having 10 trucks when the balance number is 8. How might this affect overall productivity?

   Hint

   Analyze the costs associated with inefficiency.