Simulation based decision for steelmaking operations challenges

Companhia Sidenirgica de Tubarao CST, is investing to expand production level in 50%, adding new equipment and altering production process. Simulation is widely used in CST, mainly in strategic phases prior to capital investment. A previous simulation model developed with ARENA was enhanced to help CST achieve new goals: to analyze new process plan with operational details, testing different production and operational scenarios, evaluating new procedures and best practices. Two case studies are presented here to show how CST uses this technology: the expansion of an steelmaking plant and the expansion of the raw material handling conveyor system