Applying simulation to wind rotor blade manufacturing: process alignment in an international environment

The company, Suzlon Blade Technology (SBT), wanted to implement Simulation as a strategic tool for decision-making and to optimise the production of wind turbine blades. Data on one wind rotor blade plant was retrieved from experts and internal documents, then used to create a conceptual model and detailed 2D/3D models of the plant. The models were used to show the potential of Discrete Event Simulation regarding representativeness of the system, generation of multiple scenarios, accuracy of estimations, as well as to evaluate interventions at the plant. As deliverables, we provided SBT with an adapted simulation methodology, conceptual and computer models, and a case study with guidelines on how to test and prioritise interventions with statistical reliability.