Norwich Tool, a large machine shop, is considering replacing one of its lathes with either

of two new lathes $$ lathe A or lathe B$.$ Lathe A is a highly automated, computer$-$controlled

lathe; lathe B is a less expensive lathe that uses standard technology. To analyse these

alternatives, Mario Jackson, a financial analyst, prepared estimates of the initial

investment and incremental $($relevant$)$ cash inflows associated with each lathe. These are

shown in the following table.

Lathe A Lathe B

Initial Investment $ $660,000$ $ $360,000$

Year $($t$)$

$1$ $ $128,000$ $ $88,000$

$2$ $ $182,000$ $ $120,000$

$3$ $ $166,000$ $ $96,000$

$4$ $ $168,000$ $ $86,000$

$5$ $ $450,000$ $ $207,000$

Note that Mario plans to analyse both lathes over a $5-$year period. At the end of that time,

the lathes would be sold, thus accounting for the large fifth year cash inflows.

Mario feels the two lathes are equally risky and the acceptance of either of them will not

change the company$$s overall risk. He$,$ therefore, decided to apply the company$$s $13\%$

cost of capital when analysing the lathes. Norwich Tool requires all projects to have a

maximum payback period of $4\mathrm{.}0$ years.

Required:

$2$a$.$Research the concept of Payback period and calculate the Payback period of both

lathes.

$2$b$.$Perform a cost benefit analysis and advise Mario which lathe to acquire.

Do support your assumptions for including any item or variable.

$($tip: a point listed or an element description is given only one $(1)$ mark$)$

N$.$B give thorough advice to get $4$ marks