Productivity improvement in cement discharging

Approach

• Operation on board the vessel was observed to understand why the productivity was low and evaluate the scope for improvement. 
• It was noted that when the discharging was from Hold 1, the speed of the conveyor belt was reduced purposefully as there was a turn on the convey belt, close to the hold. This was done to prevent cargo spillage near the bend.
• The stowage plan was changed to reduce the quantity of cargo in Hold 1 and increase it in other holds for subsequent loadings.

Result Achieved

• Vessel productivity increased by 17% over a 3 month period following the implementation of the improvements identified and other operational refinements.