Average Rate of ReturnCost Savings

Northwest Fabricators Inc. is considering an investment in equipment that will replace direct labor. The equipment has a cost of $171,600 with a $20,400 residual value and a 10-year life. The equipment will replace one employee who has an average wage of $44,200 per year. In addition, the equipment will have operating and energy costs of $4,120 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. fill in the blank 1 %