3.2. Estimating Using Thumb Rules

Try these first

1. 1.

   What are the three components of cycle time for a bulldozer?

   Hint

   Think about what each time refers to in bulldozer operation.

2. 2.

   Define job efficiency.

   Hint

   How long does the bulldozer work in an hour?

3. 3.

   What is included in cycle time?

   • Push time
   • Backtrack time
   • Maneuver time
   • All of the above

   Hint

   Think about what makes up the total time for an operation.

4. 4.

   True or False: Maneuver time varies significantly depending on the dozing distance.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider what factors keep maneuver time consistent.

5. 5.

   A bulldozer pushing material moves at a speed of 1 meter per second, with a push time of 20 seconds. Given a backtrack time of 10 seconds and a maneuver time of 5 seconds, calculate the total cycle time and potential productivity for 25 minutes of operation.

   Hint

   Break the problem into smaller steps for clarity.

6. 6.

   Consider a case where a bulldozer operates on a slope and the cycle time increases by 20% due to terrain factors. If the original cycle time was 30 minutes, determine the new cycle time and discuss how that impacts productivity.

   Hint

   Calculate the impact in terms of cycles per hour to find the productivity change.