AllRounder.ai
Chapters in this course

Enrol to start learning

Reading is open to everyone. Enrolling is free, and it is what unlocks the audio lessons, practice tests and progress tracking.

Enrol free

5. Cycle Time of the Bulldozer

The chapter provides a comprehensive insight into the operational dynamics of bulldozers, particularly focusing on cycle time estimation, productivity assessment, and the impact of various operational factors such as haul distance, speed, and transmission types. It elaborates on how to use performance charts for speed determination and introduces several methods for estimating productivity, including the use of production curves and thumb rules. This foundation offers a vital understanding necessary for effective cost estimation in earthmoving operations.

Sections

Cycle Time of the Bulldozer

This section discusses the cycle time of bulldozers, including its components and factors affecting productivity.

1 Section Overview

Start current section content and materials

1.1 Fixed Time and Variable Time

This section discusses the concepts of cycle time in bulldozer operations, distinguishing between fixed and variable time components and their implications on productivity.

1.2 Maneuver Time

This section explains the concept of maneuver time in bulldozer operations, detailing how it affects cycle time and productivity.

1.3 Effect of Transmission Type on Cycle Time

The section discusses how different types of transmission systems in bulldozers affect cycle time, including factors like push time and maneuver time.

Estimating Productivity of the Bulldozer

This section explains how to estimate the productivity of bulldozers, focusing on cycle times and factors affecting performance.

2 Section Overview

Start current section content and materials

2.1 Definitions of Volume in Different States

This section discusses the significance of understanding volume definitions in different states, particularly in the context of machinery operations like bulldozers.

2.2 Calculating Blade Load and Cycle Time

This section discusses the concepts of cycle time and blade load for bulldozers, emphasizing their significance in estimating productivity.

2.3 Job Efficiency and Operating Time

This section discusses the cycle time, push time, backtrack time, maneuver time, and job efficiency of bulldozers, highlighting their roles in estimating productivity.

2.4 Unit Cost of Production in Earthmoving Operation

This section explores the cycle time, productivity estimation, and cost analysis involved in earthmoving operations, particularly focusing on bulldozer efficiency.

Approaches to Estimate Productivity

This section discusses various methods to estimate the productivity of earthmoving equipment, particularly bulldozers, focusing on cycle time, blade load, and job efficiency.

3 Section Overview

Start current section content and materials

3.1 Using Production Curves

This section discusses the importance of cycle time and productivity estimation for bulldozers using production curves.

3.2 Estimating Using Thumb Rules

In this section, we learn about estimating bulldozer productivity using cycle times, maneuver times, and thumb rules.

Correction Factors in Productivity Estimation

This section discusses the importance of correction factors in estimating productivity for earthmoving operations, focusing particularly on bulldozers and their cycle times.

4 Section Overview

Start current section content and materials

4.1 Factors Affecting Productivity

The section explores various factors that influence the productivity of bulldozers, including cycle time, maneuvering time, and job efficiency.

4.2 Effects of Terrain on Productivity

This section explores the impact of terrain on bulldozer productivity, detailing how factors such as cycle time, haul distance, and soil resistance affect overall performance.

Example Problem on Productivity Estimation

This section discusses the estimation of bulldozer productivity by analyzing factors such as cycle time, maneuvering time, and haul distance.

5 Section Overview

Start current section content and materials

5.1 Details of the Example Problem

This section outlines the concepts of cycle time estimation and productivity assessment for bulldozers used in earthmoving operations.

5.2 Utilizing Production Curves for Estimation

This section outlines the procedures and considerations necessary for estimating bulldozer productivity using production curves, incorporating factors like cycle time, haul distance, and job efficiency.

Learning Objectives

  • The cycle time of a bulldozer is comprised of push time, return time, and maneuver time.

  • Productivity can be estimated through several methods including performance charts, production curves, and thumb rules.

  • Job efficiency is a crucial factor that influences the effective operational time of bulldozers, impacting productivity and cost estimates.

Key Concepts

Cycle Time

The total time taken for completing one full operation cycle of a bulldozer, including push time, return time, and maneuver time.

Push Time

The time required for a bulldozer to push material from the cutting point to the dumping location, which varies depending on haul distance.

Productivity

The volume of material moved by the bulldozer over a defined time period, typically expressed in loose cubic meters per hour.

Job Efficiency

The percentage of time that the bulldozer is actively working compared to the total time allocated for the operation.

Transmission Type

Types of gear change in the bulldozer, which affect the maneuver time and overall cycle time; can be manual or automatic.

Practice Exercises

Total Questions

2

Estimated Time

4 min

Passing Score

70%

Instructions

  • Read each question carefully
  • You can use hints if you need help
  • Complete all questions before submitting
Sign up to take this test

Get your answers marked and your progress tracked

Enrol free