Decision Making Equipment Replacement

Mathews manages an assembly facility of Orthom Scientific. A supplier approaches Mathews about replacing a large piece of manufacturing equipment that Orthom uses in its process with a more efficient model. While the supplier made some compelling arguments in favor of replacing the 3-year-old equipment, Mathews is hesitant. Mathews is hoping to be promoted next year to manager of the larger plant near Orthoms headquarters, and he knows that the accrual-basis net operating income of the assembly plant he manages will be evaluated closely as part of the promotion decision. The following information is available concerning the equipment replacement decision:

The historic cost of the old machine is $600,000. It has a current book value of $240,000, two remaining years of useful life, and a market value of $144,000. Annual depreciation expense is $120,000. It is expected to have a salvage value of $0 at the end of its useful life.

The new equipment will cost $360,000. It will have a 2-year useful life and a $0 salvage value. Orthom uses straight-line depreciation on all equipment.

The new equipment will reduce electricity costs by $70,000 per year and will reduce direct manufacturing labor costs by $60,000 per year.

For simplicity, ignore income taxes and the time value of money.

Required:

Assume that Mathews priority is to receive the promotion and he makes the equipment replacement decision based on next years accrual-based net operating income. Which alternative would he choose? Show your calculations.

What are the relevant factors in the decision? Which alternative is in the best interest of the company over the next 2 years? Show your calculations.

At what cost would Mathews be willing to purchase the new equipment? Explain.