Marine dock optimization for a bulk chemicals manufacturing facility

Abstract

U.S. petrochemical manufacturers operate in a very challenging environment on account of the recent economic crisis, volatility in crude oil prices, rising capacity in the Middle East, etc. Recently, there has been a focus on logistics costs and, in particular, capacity utilization as a means to retain a competitive edge. This thesis focuses on marine dock optimization for a major bulk chemicals manufacturer. The authors have surveyed the research literature to find commonalities in various approaches to the problem of dock optimization- in the petrochemical shipping industry as well as in allied operational environments such as container shipping. They discuss the inputs that would be needed to build a decision-support-system designed for the express purpose of measuring dock utilization. Following a review of the industry context and relevant literature, the authors develop a demonstrative framework that captures the key variables and constraints affecting loading and unloading operations. The authors speculate that multiple simulation and optimization techniques could sufficiently address the quantification of operational uncertainties at the marine dock. However, emphasis is placed upon the need for thorough data gathering and correct prioritization of variables and constraints affecting efficiency of dock operations.