Estimation of Concrete Paving Construction Productivity Using Discrete Event Simulation

The objective of this paper was to study and optimize the concrete paving operations taking place in the reconstruction project of Interstate 74 using simulation. To achieve this objective, field data were collected during construction, and were then used to determine adequate probabilistic density functions for the activities duration and to validate a developed simulation model. Upon validation, the developed model was used to study the impacts of resources on the flow of operations and on the cost-effectiveness of the construction process. In general, application of simulation methods to concrete paving operations was successful and its accuracy was acceptable as compared to field measurements. Based on the results of a sensitivity analysis of the critical resources, multiple factors were considered in the decision-making process to ensure that all aspects of the operation are evaluated. This includes total operation time, productivity, costs of the operation, average truck delay, and idle times for the paver and the spreader. For the conditions pertinent to this construction site, 10 trucks, one paver and one spreader, and three finishing and plastic-covering crews are recommended. Using this set of resources would result in a prompt and effective execution of the operation. Practical implementation of the developed model in similar construction operations is discussed.