Stochastic analysis of ready mix concrete batch plant in Kfarshima, Lebanon

Abstract

Evaluating the productivity of a ready mix concrete batch plant is one of the most challenging tasks of a plant manager and engineer, since it involves lot of uncertainties, thus risks. Hence, a stochastic productivity model is deemed important. This paper analyzes the production of ready mix concrete batch plant using two stochastic models: i) a queuing model, and ii) a simulation model. The queuing model is based on both the Queuing Theory (QT) and a Markov Chain (MC) model. While the simulation model is based on the Monte Carlo simulation technique performed by MicroCyclone web-based software. Both models are applied to the HOLCIM plant in Kfarshima, Lebanon. This paper is relevant to both the academic field and the industry.