Understanding the Total Capacity of a Dumbwaiter: A Simple Guide

A dumbwaiter has an area of 9 sqft and a height of 4 ft. If its capacity is 13.9 lb/ft3, what is the total capacity?

• A. 350 lbs
• B. 500 lbs
• C. 600 lbs
• D. 850 lbs

Answer: (B)

To determine the total capacity of the dumbwaiter, you first need to calculate its volume. The volume is found by multiplying the area by the height. In this case, the area is 9 square feet, and the height is 4 feet, so the volume is: Volume = Area x Height = 9 sqft x 4 ft = 36 cubic feet. Next, you can calculate the total capacity by multiplying the volume by the capacity per cubic foot. Given that the capacity is 13.9 lb/ft³, the total capacity can be calculated as follows: Total Capacity = Volume x Capacity per cubic foot = 36 ft³ x 13.9 lb/ft³ = 500.4 lbs. When rounding down, this value corresponds to an effective total capacity of 500 lbs. Thus, the correct answer is 500 lbs. This reasoning confirms that option B is the accurate answer based on the calculations involving the dimensions and density provided.

Let’s dive into a practical example that’s bound to pop up on your Elevator Mechanic Practice Exam. Picture this: a dumbwaiter with dimensions that we can work with to determine its total load capacity. It’s a basic calculation that we can break down into manageable pieces, making it easier to grasp and apply when you need it most.

First off, we’ve got a dumbwaiter with an area of 9 square feet and a height of 4 feet. If you’re scratching your head, don’t worry! You’re not alone. Here’s the thing: to find the total capacity of this little workhorse, we need its volume. So, what do we do? Multiply the area by the height. Easy enough, right?

Volume = Area x Height

Volume = 9 sqft x 4 ft = 36 cubic feet.

There you have it! We’ve got our volume. Now, let’s turn this 36 into something more informative. To find out how much weight this dumbwaiter can actually hold, we need to multiply the volume by its capacity per cubic foot, which is 13.9 lb/ft³. Simple math, folks!

Total Capacity = Volume x Capacity per cubic foot

Total Capacity = 36 ft³ x 13.9 lb/ft³ = 500.4 lbs.

What does this tell us? Well, while the number is 500.4, we’re looking for a rounded figure here for practical purposes. So, let’s keep it real and round it down to 500 lbs. This means option B is our golden ticket, confirming that this dumbwaiter can safely carry up to 500 pounds!

Isn’t it fascinating how straightforward calculations like these empower you as a mechanic? You know what this means? Understanding the principles behind capacity calculations isn’t just about crunching numbers; it’s about ensuring safety and efficiency in your work.

While we’re on the topic of weights and measures, have you ever considered how other aspects of elevator mechanics rely similarly on calculations? Whether it’s ensuring the safety of a lift or the operational efficiency of a cargo elevator, grasping these concepts provides a firm foundation for your career.

Remember, as you study for the Elevator Mechanic Exam or any related assessments, keeping these calculations fresh in your mind will bolster your confidence when faced with similar questions. You’ll walk into that exam room knowing you’ve got this!

So, let’s recap before we wrap up. A dumbwaiter with specific dimensions can be quantified through straightforward calculations to determine its carrying capacity—a skill integral for anyone in the elevator industry. And there you have it: the path from dimensions to weight is just a couple of simple multiplications away. Keep practicing, stay curious, and good luck out there!