Shi, Q; Yu, J; Zhang, L; Su, Y; Wang, J and Kong, Q (2025) An optimization model for the duration of workshop production processes for precast concrete components for highway projects. International Journal of Construction Management, 25(7), pp. 813-825. ISSN 1562-3599
Abstract
Purpose of this Paper: Highway projects have tight schedule requirements, huge components and high reliance on labor, which are notorious for making the scheduling of component production difficult. This paper thus proposes an approach to optimize the production of large precast components for highway projects to reduce the production duration. Design/Methodology/Approach: A model for optimizing the duration of precast concrete component production was developed by considering the large size of the components and the limited space of workshops. The optimized solution was obtained by using a sine cosine algorithm (SCA). A real case study was conducted to verify the feasibility of the model. Findings: The production time for assembling reinforcement and concreting was significantly reduced and suggested a further mechanized production instead of manual production for assembling reinforcement. Planning of the tonnage and trips of the torpedo tank will be necessary to increase the concreting efficiency. Originality/Value: This paper is expected to provide empirical references for planning and optimizing the production of precast concrete components for highway projects and other mega-infrastructures. The optimization model is encouraged to improve the efficiency of the production of large precast concrete components and further promote the development of highway projects.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | highway projects; precast concrete components; production schedules; sine cosine algorithm |
| Index terms: | case study, workshop, efficiency, precast concrete, reinforcement, highway construction, duration, scheduling, production process, methodology, concreting |
| Subjects: | building materials, data collection methods, project controls, civil engineering, performance management, operations research, construction type, building construction, research methods, manufacturing engineering |
| Topics: | Time Control, Construction Technology, Research Practice, Construction Materials, Quality Management, Engineering Principles |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here