A Simulation-Based Analysis of a Gas Filling Process

Simulation models are a powerful engineering tool to analyze the performance of complex systems enabling the comparison of different scenarios and the evaluation of a considerable set of dynamic key performance indicators. This dynamic evaluation supports decision-making by helping operations managers to compare options and to choose the best course of action. This work presents a real-world industry case study illustrating the advantages of using simulation to analyze the current system and evaluate different scenarios of operation. The case study refers to a gas filling process which combines a continuous part (gas tanks’ operation) with a discrete one (filling of gas into the cylinders). The mishmash of continuous and discrete operations is a challenge for modelling & simulation, involving a combined approach not always easy to accomplish. Results lead to the conclusion that the company is able to keep the production levels while reducing the number of dedicated tanks, thus opening up the possibility of exploring other business opportunities.