Linear scheduling of pipeline construction projects with varying production rates

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: The purpose of this research was to expand the capabilities of linear scheduling to account for varying production rates in pipeline construction when and where they occur. This new linear scheduling model, Linear Scheduling Model with Varying Production Rates (LSM VPR) had two objectives. The first of these objectives was to outline a framework to apply changes in production rates when and where they occur along the horizontal alignment of the project. The second objective was to illustrate the difficulty or ease of construction through the time-location chart.

Findings and Conclusions: This research showed that the changes in production rates due to time and location can be modeled for use in predicting future construction projects. The model created for this purpose is the Linear Scheduling Model with Varying Production Rates. Using LSM VPR allows the scheduler to develop schedule durations based on minimal project information. The model also allows the scheduler to analyze the impact of various routes or start dates for construction and the corresponding impact on the schedule. The graphical format allows the construction team to visualize the obstacles in the project when and where they occur due to a new feature called the Activity Performance Index (API). This index is used to shade the linear scheduling chart by time and location with the variation in color indicating the variance in predicted production rate from the desired production rate.