Improving the throughput of a chemical plant

Abstract

This paper describes a modular GASP IV model of a chemical plant and its use in analyzing the operation of the plant. The model represents multiple stages and products and was developed to evaluate methods for increasing throughput. The plant manufactures six products, each going through a series of steps; different products can be in production at the same time. These products differ in chemical treatment, production rate, and demand. Production must be scheduled to meet demands and to maintain minimum inventories, and it must operate within the con straints on processing space and in-process storage. This paper also includes the data-collection proce dures and the evaluation of several alternatives pro posed to increase the throughput of the plant by as much as 100%.