A crawler excavator has a maximum reach of 28 feet and is positioned 15 feet from a building. The excavation needs to extend 35 feet from the building. What is the best solution?
Correct Answer
B) Reposition the excavator during the work
The excavator can reach 28 feet from its position, but the work extends 35 feet from the building (15 + 35 = 50 feet total). Repositioning the excavator closer to or within the work area will allow completion of the excavation.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Repositioning the excavator is the most practical and cost-effective solution. The excavator's 28-foot reach is sufficient to complete the work if positioned strategically. By moving the excavator closer to the building or within the excavation area as work progresses, the contractor can reach all required areas without additional equipment or significant delays. This approach maximizes the use of existing equipment while maintaining project efficiency.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option C: Use a different excavator with longer reach
Hand digging 20+ feet of excavation (the area beyond the excavator's reach) would be extremely time-consuming, labor-intensive, and costly. This approach would significantly delay the project and increase labor costs unnecessarily when mechanical solutions are available.
Option D: Use hand digging for the remaining area
While using a different excavator with longer reach would work, it's unnecessarily expensive and inefficient when the current equipment can complete the job with simple repositioning. This option increases costs without providing significant benefit.
Memory Technique
Remember 'REACH before REPLACE' - always consider repositioning existing equipment before getting new equipment or changing methods.
Reference Hint
Construction Equipment and Methods chapter on earthmoving equipment capabilities and positioning strategies
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