Operational simulation model of the raw material handling in an integrated steel making plant

This article is focused on the design and implementation of an operational simulation model (OSM) of the handling of raw material in an integrated steel making plant, considering operations of receiving, unloading, stocking, handling and supplying the different raw materials related to the production process with an operational perspective. The aim of this focus is to help in the decision making of the team controlling the ore inventory. Based on the methodological structure developed by Coelho (2008), this OSM showed that most of the valid concepts for simulations with a strategic focus do not present relevance from an operational point of view. The advantage of the OSM is the fact that it is not random or stochastic, but deterministic, while exhibiting behaviour considered satisfactory by management and steelyard team alike.