Context

Maintaining an accurate representation of the refinery requires constant attention.  Modelling structures can become complex and incremental updates may lead to instability.  Slow-running, poor convergence and local optima can often be problems seen by planners when using their LP model, leading to frustration and low efficiency when trying to use the model for optimal commercial decision making.

Service

An LP model review can include several aspects:

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• A review of the overall model performance, (convergence path, susceptibility to local optima), and optimiser settings.

• A deeper assessment of process sub-model structures, identifying structural redundancies, and opportunities for improvements.

• A review of the way the LP model is set-up and used for decision-making, specifically identifying ways to avoid local optima.

• Once a review scope is agreed and the work completed, a report is prepared.  This will identify areas for attention and recommendations, with the opportunity for discussion.  Duration and costings depend on scope.

• Subsequent to the review, implementing the recommendations can also be undertaken, documented and shared with the site.  Any model modifications recommended are based on minimising complexity and streamlining wherever possible the final LP structures.

Value Proposition

A review of the LP model and how it is set-up and deployed can lead to insights in getting improved value from this key tool.  Efficiency in use from a streamlined and accurate tool is  fundamental to translating the LP model outcomes into business decisions.