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Stolthaven Terminals and Systems Navigator further improve simulation model library

Together with Stolthaven Terminals, Systems Navigator further improved the Generic Oil Model (GOM) infrastructure logic for complex chemical terminal infrastructure.



DELFT; January 13, 2021 – Stolthaven Terminals in Rotterdam cooperated with Systems Navigator to support a terminal within its portfolio with their strategic decision regarding the jetty line layout. To quantify the impact of terminal improvement initiatives, a simulation model configuration with product-to-product changeover logic, cleaning durations and data driven usage of multiple lines for a parcel transfer is included in Systems Navigator’s extensive model library.


Because of the business need to always improve turnaround times of ships and the condition to maintain the high-quality standards regarding preventing product contamination, the terminal is evaluating the investment in new jetty lines. Next to improved pre and/or post pump durations, faster turnaround times can be achieved by faster pumping or by parallel (un)loading operations. When multiple jetty lines can be used to transfer a parcel, the flow rates increase. Therefore, increasing the amount of parcels transfers using multiple jetty line simultaneously is a key part of reducing ship’s turnaround times.


The simulation project was done to evaluate the best jetty line configuration, product allocation to lines and to calculate the expected achieved flow rates and number of product-to-product changeovers.


Main project results

The project results in a thorough understanding of the expected terminal performance with a focus on:

  • Achieved flow rates for specific products

  • Percentage of parcels that was able to be transferred via multiple (2 or 3) jetty lines simultaneously

  • Number of product-to-product changeovers required

  • Total number of cleaning hours required for all product-to-product changeovers

  • Potential operational improvements in shore side infrastructure and corresponding terminal performance increase regarding achieved flow rates

  • Tradeoff in operation flexibility versus changeover costs for cleaning

According to Stolthaven: “Stolthaven makes significant investments in continuous upgrades of our infrastructure. Working with Systems Navigator has helped us to better prioritize our investments and quantify the impact of decisions on our service levels” – stated Bas Verheul, Global Asset Management Director Stolthaven Terminals.


On Systems Navigator side: “This project was all about getting a grip on the complex infrastructure usage of the simulated terminal. We well succeeded in this, given that we achieved 98% accuracy in the total product-to-product changeovers done". – stated Daan Merkestein, Systems Navigator Sr. Consultant.


About Stolthaven Terminals

With a global network of 16 owned and joint-venture terminals we provide almost five million cbm of storage capacity for bulk liquids, including chemicals, clean petroleum products, liquified petroleum gases, vegetable oils, biofuels and oleochemicals. Each of our terminals is conveniently located close to your operations and with access to key international shipping hubs, meaning that we can quickly adapt to your changing needs.


Stolthaven’s global network of terminals provides high quality storage and distribution services to customers worldwide. Our state-of-the-art terminals complement the capabilities of both Stolt Tankers and Stolt Tank Containers, ensuring an efficient ship-to-shore interface with the aim of reducing potential demurrage costs and facilitating agile and competitive supply chains. These close relationships enable us to provide its customers with integrated transportation solutions that reduce costs and increase operating efficiencies, all within an environment of assured quality, safety and environmental protection.


About Systems Navigator

Systems Navigator is a global leader in advanced and predictive decision support technology. Since 2003, our employees are working around the globe for a wide range of customers on the most challenging projects. We assist our customers in making better decisions on where to spend their capital by demonstrating the impact of change through simulation modelling. Our Dropboard platform for planning & scheduling helps companies optimize their operations, improve customer service and maximize the use of their assets.


To learn more about this project or Systems Navigator, please contact our office at +31 (0) 15 750 1030, email us or visit the website at www.systemsnavigator.com.


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