An algorithm for scheduling a chemical processing tank line

Abstract This paper presents a model and an algorithm for scheduling a system in which parts are processed through a chemical processing tank line. The tank line is equipped with one piece of material-handling equipment. The tank line is modelled with a mixed integer linear programming formulation. The formulation is then used to develop a heuristic algorithm. The algorithm generates the optimum or near optimum schedule and is easy to apply in practice where no defectives are permitted.