Final answer:
The question involves calculating the Equivalent Annual Cost (EAC) for two pieces of manufacturing equipment considering their purchase price, operational costs, lifespan, salvage value, and tax considerations to determine which one is more economical to purchase.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question revolves around the calculation of the Equivalent Annual Cost (EAC) for two different manufacturing equipment options to determine which one is more cost-effective to purchase. The decision necessitates an understanding of the present value of costs over the equipment's lifespan, accounting for purchase price, operational costs, salvage value, and tax implications.
Calculation of EAC for Equipment A
Initial cost: $2.9 million
Annual operational cost (pre-tax): $80,000
Useful life: 8 years
Salvage value: $340,000
Calculation of EAC for Equipment B
Initial cost: $5.7 million
Annual operational cost (pre-tax): $69,000
Useful life: 12 years
Salvage value: $420,000
The EAC is the annual cost of owning and operating the equipment over its lifetime, considering the time value of money. To determine which equipment to purchase, one would calculate the EAC for both equipment A and B. The equipment with the lower EAC is generally the more cost-effective choice.