Projects Portfolio

Project 1: Postgraduate dissertation

Using Discrete-Event Simulation to Manage

Construction Operations of High-Rise Reinforced

Concrete Buildings.

Abstract

Construction is an industry riddled with many uncertainties and changing variables. Every construction project is unique, and often this uniqueness comes with an added complexity to the project. Process planning and control are two areas of construction in which innovative techniques and technologies have been attempted to be integrated. 

It is for this reason that the application of simulation technology has not been widely adopted in this industry. Research has been done and continues to be done to ensure easier adoption of simulation technology in the construction industry.

This Thesis will focus on Discrete Event Simulation and how adopting this practice in construction can help to improve the efficiency of work, reduce cost, save time, identify bottlenecks in the construction process, and evaluate how resource changes or reallocation can affect construction duration and productivity. Simulation analyses normally consist of the time and cost of construction, rates of use of resources, waiting periods I.e., queues, and other technical details. The outcome generally indicates the vital components of the operations that have a prospect for simulation closest to reality, due to which reduction in cost or time may be possible

The first step in solving this problem is building a conceptual model, which will be considered as the theoretical model for Multi-Story buildings and the application of the simulation model. From this, a representative simulation model is formulated for MSB projects, including the basic activities and their logical relationships. This model was verified and validated. A model verification was executed as this ensures that the system being modeled behaves just like or as close as possible to the real-world system. If this step is not completed, the results of the simulation cannot be accepted as true because of the uncertainty that comes with not knowing if the modeled system correctly and accurately

represents the way the real-world system reacts or behaves. The validation process was executed by comparing the results of the simulation versus a real life project of the same nature.

The developed model gives the user the ability to optimize any of the parameters under simulation (cost or time) using OptQuest for Arena. The optimization process can produce results showing the optimum number of resources for reduced project cost.

Conclusions & Recommendations

The main challenges of planning and scheduling RAP are getting the optimum project duration which is subject to resource continuity constraints and also getting the minimum resource cost while considering both the complex relationships in how resources are managed to keep resources working without any idle time and the stochastic approach for activity durations.

There have been many researches carried out to try and develop a suitable planning and scheduling strategy for RAP. However, RAP scheduling remains a challenge as most attempts did not consider the stochastic nature of construction activities and therefore could not ensure the resource continuity constraints.

This research attempted to solve planning and scheduling problems of MSB projects with a repetitive nature by developing a general simulation model suitable for MSB-projects as an example for RAP.

The conceptual model was developed to define the hierarchy of a real case for a MSB-projects WBS, to develop a flowchart to show the logical relationships for MSB-projects, to build a work-flow mechanism of the simulation model and to clarify any assumptions based on interaction between the system components

Two types of data were gathered regarding MSB projects. The first was “simulation input data” that was used to build the model. The data consisted of the performed activities and their logical relationships, the productivity of the resources, a list of the used resources, and the number of resources in each crew. The triangular distribution was the most suitable function for the resource production rates according to the nature of the collected data. The productivity distributions for each activity were calculated using the “Input Analyzer” tool of Arena.

The second type of data was “User input data”. This data consisted of the project's objective, the resource constraints the work quantity for each process, the number of required resources, and resource cost rates.

The general simulation model was built using Arena simulation software. Through this step, the general layout of the Arena simulation model blocks, modules, and their functions were described. Several different possible scenarios were considered in the model. The developed model is limited to special logical relationships between activities and only handles resource costs. Ten working hours a day were assumed as well as special types of internal and external finishing.

The designed model was verified and validated. The verification process was done to ensure that the simulation model operates the way in was intended to and that no logical or syntax errors exist within the model. To ensure that no over allocations of resources occurred, all the activities were drawn in MS-Project. The validation process was done to ascertain whether the simulation model is an accurate representation of the real system for the particular objectives of the study. Both face validation and statistical validation were done on the model. Face validation was achieved through a cyclic model review and improvement process. The statistical validation was achieved by comparing the model results with a traditional scheduling technique (CPM) for an actual case study using MS-Project. The results of the verification and validation process illustrated that these modules work properly and they gave dependable output results.

By using Arenas OptQuest, the simulation user is capable of optimizing any of the applied case parameters. The objective of the optimization was to minimize the total cost of the project by finding the optimum number of resources required. A decrease of 7.5% of the total cost was achieved from the actual cost without a significant change to the duration thanks to the optimization process. Moreover, it was found that the optimum number in resource crews is less than that which was actually planned for. This is due to good exploitation of the available resources by the integration between simulation and optimization.

This study has shown just how powerful a tool simulation can be for increasing the efficiency of planning in construction projects. Simulation is a tool that should see greater use in the construction industry by planners and decision-makers as it is a mighty tool in forecasting the behavior of projects.

With the addition of optimization, the effectual planning in construction projects is highlighted even further. The optimization process yields several viable and reasonable solutions from a group of predefined constraints against a specified objective to achieve the minimum overall project time and cost

Educational courses and training in Simulation techniques will greatly expedite the use of simulation in the construction industry.

Lastly, with the difficulty faced in acquiring input data, an archive of past, current, and future construction project data should be created, frequently updated, and validated. This should be done to ensure that the time of model building can be reduced, and over a long enough period and data analysis there can exist a commonly accepted set of input data for example resource productivity distribution functions.

project 2: Bangweulu solar power plant 

Project Overview:

The Bangweulu Solar Power Station (BSPS) is a landmark renewable energy infrastructure project located in the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ) in Zambia. Developed and owned by a consortium comprising Neoen, IDC Zambia, and First Solar, this 54 MW solar power plant represents a significant milestone in Zambia's renewable energy transition.

Project Details:

• Project Name: Bangweulu Solar Power Station (BSPS)

• Capacity: 54 MW

• Commissioning Date: March 2019

• Location: Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone, Kafue District, Lusaka Province, Zambia

• Ownership: Neoen, IDC Zambia, First Solar

• Project Cost: US$60 million

• Grant Funding: US$2 million (from USAID)

• Financial Support: US$39 million loan (from IFC and DFC)

Key Stakeholders:

• Developer: Neoen

• Owner: Industrial Development Corporation of Zambia (IDC Zambia)

• Technology Provider: First Solar

• EPC Contractor: Sterling & Wilson (India-based engineering and construction company)

• Offtaker: Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation Limited (ZESCO)

Project Scope and Achievements:

The BSPS project involved the development and construction of a 54 MW solar power plant spanning approximately 52 hectares of land. The solar farm is equipped with over 460,000 thin film modules supplied by First Solar, ensuring efficient energy generation and delivery.

Project Milestones:

• Tender Award: Awarded through the World Bank Group's "Scaling Solar" program.

• EPC Contract: Awarded to Sterling & Wilson; construction commenced in December 2017.

• Commercial Commissioning: Achieved in March 2019, ensuring operational readiness and grid connectivity.

• Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): Signed with ZESCO for a 25-year term at a rate of US$0.0602 per kWh, facilitating sustainable energy supply to the national grid.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability:

The BSPS contributes significantly to Zambia's renewable energy capacity, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. The solar power station aligns with global sustainability goals and promotes clean energy adoption within the region.

My Role and Contributions:

During my involvement in the BSPS project, I played a pivotal role in:

• Monitoring project progress and milestones, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.

• Supporting the implementation of the EPC contract, overseeing construction activities, and addressing technical challenges.

• Contributing to the successful commissioning and grid integration of the solar power station, enabling sustainable energy supply to the Zambian population.

Conclusion:

The Bangweulu Solar Power Station represents a flagship renewable energy initiative, demonstrating the collaborative efforts of international stakeholders to advance Zambia's energy transition. This project underscores my commitment to sustainable development and my expertise in managing complex infrastructure projects within the renewable energy sector.

project 3: levy mwanawasa hospital expansion

Project Overview:

The Levy Mwanawasa Hospital Expansion Project aimed to enhance the capacity and quality of healthcare services in Lusaka, Zambia, through the expansion and modernization of the Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital (LMUTH). This initiative was made possible through funding from the China Ministry of Commerce, with implementation overseen by Shanxi Construction Engineering (Group) Cooperation. The project involved significant infrastructure upgrades and the introduction of state-of-the-art medical facilities.

Project Details:

• Project Name: Levy Mwanawasa Hospital Expansion Project

• Project Value: $71 Million

• Date of Completion: 25th March 2020

• Funding Agency: China Ministry of Commerce

• Direct Receiving Agency: Government of Zambia

• Implementing Agencies: Shanxi Construction Engineering (Group) Cooperation

• Total Construction Area: Approximately 50,000 square meters

Hospital Background:

The Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital (LMUTH) serves as a vital healthcare institution in Lusaka, with a catchment area encompassing eight districts and over 3.5 million people. Originally opened as Lusaka General Hospital in 2011, it was later renamed in honor of Zambia's third President, Levy Patrick Mwanawasa, and subsequently upgraded to a tertiary hospital in 2017.

Project Objectives:

• Expand LMUTH to a 1100-bed capacity tertiary hospital.

• Introduce specialized medical services and advanced medical equipment suitable for educational purposes within Levy Mwanawasa Medical University.

My Roles and Responsibilities:

During my involvement in the Levy Mwanawasa Hospital Expansion Project, my responsibilities included:

• Conducting regular site inspections to monitor finishing work and equipment installation, ensuring adherence to quality standards and specifications.

• Facilitating end-user training sessions for hospital staff on the operation and maintenance of new equipment and facilities.

• Providing Chinese-to-English translation services to facilitate effective communication between international contractors and local stakeholders.

Key Achievements:

• Contributed to the successful completion of the project within the stipulated timeline and budget.

• Ensured the seamless integration of advanced medical equipment and facilities into the expanded hospital infrastructure.

• Facilitated knowledge transfer through comprehensive end-user training sessions, empowering hospital staff with the necessary skills to utilize new technologies effectively.

Conclusion:

The Levy Mwanawasa Hospital Expansion Project stands as a transformative initiative aimed at strengthening healthcare services and medical education in Zambia. My involvement in this project was instrumental in facilitating the delivery of modern healthcare solutions and supporting the capacity building of local healthcare professionals.

project 4: Lusaka sanitation programme (lsp)

Project Overview:

The Lusaka Sanitation Programme (LSP) is a critical initiative under the National Water Supply and Sanitation Programme (NUWSSP) in Zambia, aimed at improving sanitation facilities and services for urban residents in Lusaka Province. This comprehensive program addresses the urgent need to tackle poor sanitation, reduce disease outbreaks, and strengthen the capacity of the Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC) in managing sanitation infrastructure.

Project Details:

• Project Name: Lusaka Sanitation Programme (LSP)

• Program Cost: US$300 Million

• Funding Agencies: World Bank (WB), African Development Bank (AfDB), European Union (EU), KfW

• Implementing Agency: Ministry of Local Government and Housing

• Expected Commencement: 2017 (procurement stage)

Program Objectives:

The Lusaka Sanitation Programme aims to achieve the following objectives:

• Increase access to sustainable sanitation services, particularly for urban poor communities.

• Strengthen LWSC's capacity to manage sanitation services effectively and efficiently.

• Improve public health outcomes by reducing the incidence of waterborne diseases linked to poor sanitation.

Components of the Programme:

1. Sewerage Improvements (Component 1):

   • Upgrade and expand sewerage systems in Ngwerere and Manchinchi sewersheds based on priorities identified in the Lusaka Sanitation Master Plan.

   • Enhance collection system capacity and efficiency through targeted investments.

2. On-Site Sanitation (Component 2):

   • Develop comprehensive solutions for on-site sanitation challenges in priority peri-urban areas.

   • Support the implementation of sanitation services and systems in areas not feasible for sewerage in the medium- to long-term.

3. Institutional Strengthening (Component 3):

   • Provide technical assistance (TA) to LWSC to enhance project implementation, operations, and maintenance capabilities.

   • Support reforms needed to optimize sanitation service delivery and respond effectively to customer demands.

Expected Benefits and Impact:

• Direct beneficiaries: 473,000 urban residents (52% women)

• Indirect beneficiaries: Approximately 600,000 individuals with improved sanitation access.

• Reduction in sanitation-related health risks and economic burden (estimated 1.3% of GDP).

Key Stakeholders:

• Funding Agencies: World Bank, AfDB, EU, KfW

• Implementing Agency: Ministry of Local Government and Housing

• Executing Agency: Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC)

Project Timeline:

• Programme commencement: 2017

• Duration: Multi-year project (specific timelines for each component)

My Role and Contributions:

Throughout my involvement in the Lusaka Sanitation Programme, I have contributed to:

• Supporting project planning and coordination efforts, ensuring alignment with program objectives and stakeholder expectations.

• Facilitating communication and collaboration among participating organizations, including government agencies and funding partners.

• Monitoring project milestones and outcomes, ensuring adherence to quality standards and timelines.

• Contributing to capacity-building initiatives within LWSC to enhance sanitation service management and sustainability.

Conclusion:

The Lusaka Sanitation Programme represents a critical investment in public health and infrastructure development, aimed at transforming sanitation services for urban residents in Lusaka. My role in this program reflects my commitment to sustainable development and improving quality of life through essential infrastructure projects.