Methodology for computer-assisted optimization of waste flow

Cicerone Laurentiu Popa,Radu Constantin Parpala,Tiberiu Dobrescu,Costel Emil Cotet,I Bondrea,M Inţă,C Simion

doi:10.1051/matecconf/201712104008

Cicerone Laurentiu Popa, Radu Constantin Parpala + Show 5 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1051/matecconf/201712104008

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Abstract

The paper reports the development of a methodology based on computer simulations with the purpose to support decisions in designing the optimal architecture of different types of selective waste collection systems and recycling systems. The design of such systems is a complex task which involves both a very good knowledge of selective waste collection system equipment characteristics and of recycling processes, and the correct placing of the equipment along the flow so that to avoid underutilization of the structural elements and to avoid bottlenecks which generate low productivity or even blockages. The methodology is applied for three case studies in which different types of waste flow models are investigated: hybrid waste flows (windshields recycling), discrete waste flows (waste electric and electronic equipment collection) and continuous flows (industrial and automotive used oil collection and recycling). The architectures of these systems are optimized using the developed methodology in order to increase usage degree and productivity.

Highlights

In a very comprehensive view, the methodology proposed in this paper comprises optimization techniques for procurement, usage, handling, transformation and disposal of physical mobile entities like different types of waste in waste collection systems and recycling systems
In the present paper material flow theory (MFT) will be used in a restricted sense, as a set of simulation and optimization rules for productivity duration and costs using various virtual waste flow models
The methodology is applied for three case studies in which different types of waste flow models are investigated: waste electric and electronic equipment collection as an example for discrete waste flows, industrial and automotive used oil collection and recycling as an example for continuous flows, windshields recycling as an example for hybrid waste flows

Summary

Introduction

In a very comprehensive view, the methodology proposed in this paper comprises optimization techniques for procurement, usage, handling, transformation and disposal of physical mobile entities like different types of waste in waste collection systems and recycling systems The area of this methodology application is wide and implies concepts of the material flow theory [1]. There are four main structural elements (work points, transport systems, transfer systems, buffers) and two auxiliary structural elements (mobile entities and human resources) in a waste processing architecture. For each one of these categories, establishing a WPA for a specific or a family of waste models involves designing and structuring the relationships between structural elements, processes, procedures and human resources That is both defining these elements, placed and acting in a specific layout, as well as the material and information flow between them. The last stage is the profit validation based on the comparison of the investment in optimizing the WPA and the gain from the increased system performance

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