3. Graphical Analysis of Costs and Productivity

Try these first

1. 1.

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

   Hint

   Use the division of truck cycle time by loader cycle time.

2. 2.

   Define loader in the context of this section.

   Hint

   Think of machines used to load materials for transportation.

3. 3.

   What is the main factor that limits productivity when the number of trucks exceeds the balance number?

   • Truck capacity
   • Loader productivity
   • Truck cycling time

   Hint

   Think about which machine controls productivity.

4. 4.

   True or False: Exceeding the balance number will always decrease production costs.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Review the effects of adding too many trucks.

5. 5.

   Given that a loader has a productivity limit of 90 cubic meters per hour, calculate how many trucks an operation should use if their goal is to move 720 cubic meters per hour while minimizing costs.

   Hint

   Consider the loader's maximum output to guide truck quantity.

6. 6.

   If the truck costs increase to 2000 rupees/hour and the loader remains at 2700, analyze how this might adjust the optimal number of trucks.

   Hint

   Re-evaluate total production costs against capacities.