Development and analysis of a port terminal loader model at RUSAL Aughinish

The present study addresses the analysis of bulk carrier loading and discharge at the RUSAL Aughinish Alumina refinery, located on the west coast of the Republic of Ireland. We design a realistic simulation model taking into account not only deterministic features, but also elements of uncertainty. Following a statistical analysis of the results, we are able to indicate how the most important variables affect large scale performance descriptors such as berth occupancy, queueing hours and costs. The model is thoroughly validated against historical data and is subsequently applied to determine the impact of changes in key parameters on overall port operation and to suggest possible improvements of the modelled system.