Simulation-Based Operational Evaluation of a Single-Berth Multipurpose Seaport with Wharf Space Restriction

Wei Xie,Yongzhong Wu,Siyi Zhuge,Dan Xiao

doi:10.3390/jmse9080883

Wei Xie, Yongzhong Wu + Show 2 more

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https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse9080883

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Abstract

Overcapacity of seaport infrastructure has been a common issue in many countries in recent years. Cautious investment decisions shall be made on the basis of realistic capacity evaluation and productivity improvement of existing ports. However, operational analysis and evaluation of a seaport is not always easy, especially for multipurpose terminals which are commonly seen in developing countries. These small-scaled multipurpose seaports handle different cargo types with multiple interrelated processes and varying handling methods and process times. This paper studies a single-berth multipurpose seaport with wharf space restriction in Indonesia and shows how the simulation model can be essential and significantly helpful in the evaluation of the port’s productivity and realistic capacity. Furthermore, a new handling method is proposed and evaluated by the simulation model. The simulation approach and related results help the port operator in making decisions regarding port improvement and future expansion investments.

Highlights

In recent years, various factors have made the environment more challenging for maritime trade, for instance, increased trading volume, vessel upsizing, and imprudent investments in port infrastructure [1]
The objective of this paper is to show the application of the simulation approach in an existing small-scale multipurpose seaport and the usefulness of such an approach in the port industry
This paper investigates the application of a simulation method in the operational analysis of a single-berth multipurpose terminal

Summary

Introduction

Various factors have made the environment more challenging for maritime trade, for instance, increased trading volume, vessel upsizing, and imprudent investments in port infrastructure [1]. High volatility of cargo volumes, and stronger competition, seaports are required to adapt to the new challenges. For port authorities and operators, cautious investment decisions shall be made on the basis of capacity evaluation and improvement of existing ports [2]. In developing countries where the port infrastructure is still developing, many existing ports are multipurpose, in that different cargoes (such as containers and break bulk) are handled in the same quay length. Evaluation of existing multipurpose seaports and terminals are challenged by the need to optimize their activities and efficiently serve different categories of vessels carrying various types of cargo, being often confronted with limited space. Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations

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