Question

Determine, based on operating costs, the break-even points for a hauled and a stationary container system as compared with a system using transfer and transport operations for transporting wastes collected from a metropolitan area to a landfill disposal site. Assume that the following cost data are applicable:

a) Haul container system using a hoist truck with an 8-yd³ container = $25/hr

b) Stationary container system using a 20 yd³ container = $40/hr

c) Tractor-semitrailer transport unit with a capacity of 105 yd = 40/hr

d) Transfer station operation cost = $2.75/yd³

Answer 1

To find the break-even points for a hauled container system and a stationary container system in contrast to transfer and transport operations, it is necessary to analyze the operating costs and volumes of waste processed to find when the total costs of these systems are equal.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine the break-even points for different waste transportation systems, one must calculate the point at which the total costs of each system are equal. We must compare the operating costs for a hauled and stationary container system with those for a system that uses transfer and transport operations.

For the hauled container system using an 8-yd³ container at $25/hr, and the stationary container system using a 20-yd³ container at $40/hr, one needs to factor in the variable cost which is the cost per yard ($2.75/yd³ from the transfer station operation).

With the tractor-semitrailer transport unit with a capacity of 105 yd³ at $40/hr, one must consider the fixed operations cost and calculate how much waste needs to be processed to reach the break-even point for each container system.

Therefore, comparing these systems requires understanding operational expenses and the scale of waste managed by each container, then using these figures to find the waste volume at which costs are equalized.