4.2 - Rolling Resistance Analysis
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Understanding Rolling Resistance
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Today we'll discuss rolling resistance, a key factor in the performance of our scrapers. Rolling resistance is the force opposing the motion of a vehicle. Can anyone tell me how this impacts our operational efficiency?
I think it makes it harder for the scraper to move, right?
Exactly! Higher rolling resistance means more fuel consumption and reduced efficiency. Now, if our rolling resistance is 50 kg per ton, what kind of gradient does that correspond to?
Is it a 5% gradient?
Correct! Remember, for every 1% gradient, it's equivalent to 10 kg per ton. Now let's think about how to convert this in operational contexts. What might be affected?
The amount of load we can carry, right?
Yes! Great connection! Always remember that rolling resistance directly influences capacity and productivity.
Calculating Resistance in Haul Routes
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Now, let’s look at our haul route. We mentioned gradients earlier. How do we calculate total resistance based on the segments of our haul route?
We add the rolling resistance to the grade resistance for each segment, right?
Exactly! Can anyone help me calculate the total resistance for a segment that has a 5% gradient?
That would be 10% if we add the rolling resistance, so 100 kg per ton in total.
Perfect! So, we need to be aware of how changes in slope affect performance. Can anyone think of practical impacts on speed or fuel usage from resistance?
More resistance means slower speed and higher fuel costs.
Well articulated! Understanding these relationships is essential in optimizing earthmoving operations.
Analyzing Scraper Cycle Times
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Let's connect rolling resistance to scraper cycle times. What are some time factors we need to consider in our scraper cycle?
Loading time, dumping time, and turning time!
Exactly! If we estimate the loading time as 0.8 minutes and dumping at 0.37 minutes, how do we compute total cycle time?
We add the individual times together!
Yes! A total cycle time also considers travel times across segments. In our case, if we total these up, we find it accumulates significantly. Why do you think optimizing this cycle is vital?
To make sure we're maximizing our productivity and efficiency!
Exactly! Every second counts in operations. Noticing how time compounds helps in scheduling and resource allocation.
Balancing Scrapers and Pushers
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As we wrap up, let’s discuss the balance between scrapers and pushers. What is the significance of selecting the right number of scrapers per pusher?
If they're balanced, they won’t wait on each other, right?
Exactly! A well-balanced operation increases efficiency. How might we decide whether to use 5 or 6 scrapers for one pusher?
We need to analyze productivity and costs for each option.
Indeed! Suppose we find 5 scrapers provide an overall cheaper unit cost than 6. What does that tell us?
That sometimes fewer machines can result in better efficiency.
Great insight! Efficiency isn’t just about numbers but understanding workflows too.
Introduction & Overview
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Quick Overview
Standard
The section covers the calculation of rolling resistance and its effects on scraper performance. It highlights formulas, the conversion of resistance percentages into operational conditions, and the importance of estimating productivity under different scenarios, emphasizing the balance needed between scrapers and pushers in an earthmoving cycle.
Detailed
Rolling Resistance Analysis
In this section, we explore the crucial concept of rolling resistance in the context of scraper operations in earthmoving. The rolling resistance determines how much effort or force is required to move a vehicle over a surface. A specific rolling resistance of 50 kg per ton has been established for a haul route, which translates to an equivalent gradient of 5%.
Key aspects covered include:
- The connection between rolling resistance and gradient, which can be assessed using conversion factors.
- The influence of external factors such as loading efficiency and swell factor on scraper productivity and operational weight.
- Various operational parameters impacting cycle times and efficiencies, including loading and dumping times, along with total cycle time assessment, which collectively affect the overall productivity of earthmoving activities.
- The importance of balancing scrapers and pushers for optimal operational performance and reduced waiting times. This section concludes with calculations and assessments to estimate production costs as well as engagement with real-life scenarios in scrapers’ operational contexts.
Audio Book
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Understanding Rolling Resistance
Chapter 1 of 5
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Chapter Content
Assume the rolling resistance of 50 kg per ton for this particular haul route the rolling resistance is 50 kg per ton. So, if you want to convert it into equivalent gradient, you know that for 1% is a gradient equal to 10 kg per ton. So, 50 kg per ton it is going to be 5%.
Detailed Explanation
Rolling resistance refers to the force that opposes the motion of a vehicle as it rolls on a surface. Here, the rolling resistance is expressed as '50 kg per ton', which means for every ton of weight carried by the scraper, there is an opposing force of 50 kg to be overcome. This resistance can be converted into a percentage gradient. The conversion factor states that a 1% gradient requires overcoming 10 kg per ton. Hence, for 50 kg per ton, the equivalent gradient becomes 5%.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine pushing a car on a flat road. It takes more effort to push the car if the road is muddy or uneven; this represents the rolling resistance. If the road were to slope upward, the effort needed to push the car increases further, similar to how the rolling resistance translates to a gradient in our scenario.
Estimating Load Capacity and Efficiency
Chapter 2 of 5
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Heaped capacity of the scraper is given as 23.70 meter cube. They expect the load will be 95% of the heaped capacity. So, that means as we discussed earlier, we are not going to load the scraper to its fullest capacity. If we load it to the fullest capacity, it will result in a decrease in loading rate after a particular time.
Detailed Explanation
In operational settings, it's not practical to load the scraper to its maximum capacity (23.70 cubic meters) every time it operates. Instead, an optimal loading of 95% is recommended to maintain efficiency. Loading beyond the optimal limits can lead to performance issues, such as slowed loading rates over time due to the 'law of diminishing returns', which implies that beyond a certain load, each additional unit leads to diminishing increases in productivity.
Examples & Analogies
Think of carrying a backpack. If you fill it to the brim, it becomes unwieldy and heavy, and you can’t move as quickly or easily. However, if you only carry a slightly lighter load, you maintain better speed and efficiency. This is similar to the concept of not fully loading the scraper.
Material Density and Swell Factor
Chapter 3 of 5
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The swell factor has given as 0.80. Swell factor will increase by 10 % due to pushing, because of the additional pressure. The swell factor is a ratio of loose dry unit weight of the material by bank dry unit weight of the material.
Detailed Explanation
The swell factor is a crucial value that indicates how much the volume of soil increases when it is disturbed or loosened (from bank state). Here, the swell factor is initially 0.80, meaning that the loose volume is 80% of the bank volume. When using a pusher, the material becomes more compacted due to added pressure, increasing the swell factor by 10%. Understanding this relationship is vital for accurate calculations of load capacities and the expected density of materials in operational contexts.
Examples & Analogies
Consider a sponge. When it’s dry (bank state), it occupies a certain volume. Once you soak it with water (loosened state), it expands and occupies more space. This is similar to how the swell factor explains changes in volume when soil is disturbed.
Importance of Safe Operating Weight
Chapter 4 of 5
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The maximum rated load it can carry is 34,019.42 kg. We have to check whether your load or material within your bowl is going to be within this safe operating weight.
Detailed Explanation
The safe operating weight is a defined limit by the manufacturer, indicating the maximum load the scraper can handle without risking damage. Exceeding this weight can compromise the equipment's structural integrity and safety. It’s crucial to ensure that the actual weight of material being moved (in this case, 32,901.2 kg) stays below this limit (34,019.42 kg) to avoid potential equipment failure or accidents.
Examples & Analogies
Think of it like a car's weight limit. If you fill your car with passengers and cargo, there’s a maximum weight it can safely carry. Exceeding that limit can affect the vehicle’s performance and can be dangerous. In our case, ensuring the scraper stays under its limit protects both the equipment and the crew.
Total Resistance Calculation
Chapter 5 of 5
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Chapter Content
Now we need to find the total resistance. The rolling resistance is uniform throughout the haul route. Is given in the question is 50 kg per ton or equivalent gradient as 5%.
Detailed Explanation
The total resistance encountered by the scraper while moving across different segments of the haul route includes both rolling and gradient (grade) resistance. The rolling resistance is consistent across the journey at 50 kg per ton or a 5% gradient. By understanding and calculating the resistance for each segment of the haul route, you can ascertain the effort the scraper must exert to move effectively.
Examples & Analogies
When riding a bicycle, the resistance you feel comes from the ground's surface (rolling resistance) and the incline of the road (gradient). Calculating both types gives you a clearer picture of how much energy you will need to exert to maintain speed.
Key Concepts
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Rolling Resistance: The force exerted against the motion of a scraper contributing to overall energy requirements.
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Cycle Time: The total operational time from loading to dumping, crucial for determining productivity.
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Gradient: The slope of the terrain affecting the total resistance experienced during movement.
Examples & Applications
If a scraper has a rolling resistance of 50 kg per ton and is working on a 5% gradient, that translates to increased energy consumption. Thus, predicting its cycle time accurately involves accounting for the total resistances.
In a scenario where a scraper operates with a swell factor of 0.8, its volume might change significantly after excavation. This must be factored in when calculating load capacities for efficiency.
Memory Aids
Interactive tools to help you remember key concepts
Rhymes
When rolling up the hill is slow, energy costs begin to grow!
Stories
Imagine a train climbing a hill; it struggles more the steeper still. With every push, it needs more might, just as scrapers do with each slight incline.
Memory Tools
Remember RRC: Resistance, Rolling, and Cycle for remembering key components of scraper efficiency.
Acronyms
SCRAPE - Slope, Cycle, Resistance, Application, Productivity, Efficiency to remember key factors on scrapers.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Rolling Resistance
The force opposing motion when a vehicle rolls on a surface, affecting energy consumption and vehicle performance.
- Gradient
The slope or incline of the surface which can contribute to additional resistance during movement.
- Swell Factor
A coefficient that describes the increase in volume of material once it is loosened from its bank state.
- Cycle Time
The total time taken to complete a set sequence of operations including loading, hauling, and dumping.
- Scraper
A specialized earthmoving machine designed to collect and transport material.
- Pusher
A type of tractor that assists scrapers in the loading phase by pushing material into their bowls.
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