Problem
A chemical process in your plant leaves scale deposits on the inside of pipes. The scale cannot be removed, but increasing the pumping pressure maintains flow through the narrower diameter. The pipe costs $25 per foot to install, and it has no salvage value when it is removed. The pumping costs are $8.50 per foot of pipe initially, and they increase annually by $6 per year starting in Year 2. What is the economic life of the pipe if the interest rate is 15%?
The response should include a reference list. Double-space, using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.