Optimising log storage and handling in New Zealand ports

Authors: Glen Murphy
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2016, Issue N.Z.J.For. 61(2) 2016, pp 36-41, Aug 2016
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Forestry is one of New Zealand’s largest export sectors for both value and volume. Logs are exported from all but one of the ports in this country. An increase in log volume exports is likely over the next decade, which will put added pressure on port-handling facilities and increase the need for productivity improvements and optimisation of storage. A multi-objective log storage and handling model was developed after visiting seven New Zealand ports. The objective function includes three key parameters: storage capacity, overall handling costs, and row-toshipside handling times. The model was validated and verified by using it to determine potential improvements in storage capacity at New Zealand’s three largest log export ports. It can be applied to greenfield log storage operations as well as brownfield. The model development, along with demonstration of the impacts of selected changes to log supply, equipment and log storage area characteristics, are described. Potential gains in storage capacity ranging from –2% to +98% are indicated.

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