Preface
“During the earlier years of construction, success frequently depended on one’s ability to drive men, mules, and equipment to complete a project at the lowest possible cost.”* The construction industry has moved a long way from mules pulling Fresno scrapers. The age of the laptop computer and the Internet is changing how we do business. With our computer systems, we now download data directly from machines. This abundance of data must, however, be turned into information that helps us better manage the machines. These technology improvements greatly enhance the constructor’s ability to make equipment, planning, and construction method decisions.
This sixth edition follows in the tradition of the first five by providing the reader with fundamentals of machine selection and production estimating in a logical, simple, and concise format. With a grounding in these fundamentals, the constructor is prepared to evaluate those reams of computer-generated data and to develop programs that speed the decision process or that allow easy analysis of multiple options.
Significant changes have been made to this edition. The chapter on “Belt-Conveyor Systems” has been dropped, as it is a specialized subject. One new chapter has been added, “Finishing Equipment.” Draglines and clamshells, which were covered in previous editions as part of “Excavation Equipment,” are now a separate chapter. The “Excavator” chapter has been expanded to include material on specialty excavators. Each of the remaining chapters has undergone revision, ranging from simple clarification to major modifications, depending on the need to improve organization and presentation of concepts.
This book enjoys wide use as a practical reference by the profession and as a college textbook. I have followed the practice of including updated photographs from actual projects to illustrate equipment and methods. Additionally, the use of examples to reinforce the concepts through application has been continued. Based on professional practice, I have tried to present standard formats for analyzing production. Many companies use such formats to avoid errors when estimating production during the fast-paced efforts required for bid preparation.
To enhance the value of the book as a college textbook, I have updated and expanded the problems at the close of each chapter. The solutions to some problems are now included in the text at the end of the problem statements. Together with the examples, they facilitate learning and give students the confidence that they can master the subjects presented.
At the close of most chapters there are names, addresses, and in many cases the web addresses for manufactures of the construction equipment illustrated and described in the book. I am deeply grateful to the many individuals and firms who have supplied information and illustrations. Four individuals are owed a particular dept of gratitude for their support and efforts. Prof. John Zaniewski, Director, Harley O. Staggers National Transportation Center, West Virginia University, who drafted the revised chapter on “Asphalt Mix Production and Placement.” Dr. Aviad Shapira, of the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel, who drafted the revised section on Tower Cranes in the “Crane” chapter. Mr. Pat Gleuso of Neil F. Lampson, Inc., contributed many ideas and a critical review of the chapter on “Cranes” during preparation of the fifth edition. Mr. R. R. Walker of Tidewater Construction Corporation who, for the fifth edition, drafted the revised chapter on “Piles and Pile-Driving Equipment” and assembled many of the figures still included in that chapter. I would like to express my thanks for many useful comments and suggestions pro-vided by the following reviewers:
L. Travis Chapin, Bowling Green State University
Larry G. Crowley, Auburn University
Jesus M. de la Garza, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
F. H. (Bud) Griffis, Brooklyn Institute of Technology
Paul E. Harmon, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Zohar Herbsman, University of Florida
C. William Ibbs, University of California–Berkeley
James Rowings, Iowa State University
Jeffrey Russell, University of Wisconsin–Madison
Richard Ryan, University of Oklahoma
Raymond F. Werkmeister, University of Kentucky
However, I take full responsibility for the material. Finally I wish to acknowledge the comments and suggestions for improvement received from persons using the book. We are all aware of how much our students help us to sharpen the subject presentation. Their questions and comments in the classroom have formed this revised book. For that and much more, I want to thank my students at Purdue, Louisiana Tech, Virginia Tech, Arizona State University, and the Air Force Academy who have over the years witnessed my classroom escapades explaining construction equipment and who have contributed so much helpful advice for clarifying the subject matter. Most importantly I thank my wife, Judy, who has typed chapters, proofread too many manuscripts, and was dragged to construction sites around the world. Without her support, this revision would not be a reality. I solicit comments on this edition.
Cliff Schexnayder
Chandler, Arizona__________________________
*R. L. Peurifoy, preface to the first edition 1956.
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