A Dynamic Simulation Model for Near-Zero Rebar-Cutting Waste through Special-Length-Priority Optimization

Abstract

Global economic fluctuations as exemplified by the recent COVID-19 financial crisis significantly impact the construction industry, particularly steel rebar supply chain and procurement. This impedes engineers’ efforts toward achieving near-zero rebar-cutting waste due to dynamic rebar minimum order quantities and maximum lengths imposed by steel mills. This study addresses the challenge of achieving near-zero rebar-cutting waste by proposing a model that simulates the level of optimization in minimizing rebar-cutting waste amidst such dynamics. The model was implemented in a case study involving reinforced concrete columns in a high-rise building. While achieving near-zero waste consistently proved challenging, particularly for greater than 50 tons of minimum quantity, the study identified a maximum 12 m rebar variant that attained this target regardless of minimum order quantity. Nonetheless, this study introduces a real-time decision-support system for rebar procurement, empowering engineers to optimize usage and minimize waste. This system facilitates near-zero rebar-cutting waste levels in response to rebar procurement requirement dynamics.