Average Rate of Return-Cost Savings Midwest Fabricators Inc. is considering an investment in equipment that will replace direct labor. The equipment has a cost of $117,000 with a $10,000 residual value and a ten-year life. The equipment will replace one employee who has an average wage of $20,815 per year. In addition, the equipment will have operating and energy costs of $5,670 per year. Determine the average rate of return on the equipment, giving effect to straight-line depreciation on the investment. If required, round to the nearest whole percent