Capacity evaluation of a railway terminal using microsimulation: Case study of a freight village in Turin

Abstract

Increasingly significant freight transport had led to larger and more complex transport chains. More specifically, intermodal transport has arisen as a desirable alternative to long-haul road transport, as it creates opportunities for cost reduction and to decrease both polluting emissions and road congestion. Hence, achieving good levels of service in intermodal dedicated structures is of paramount importance for the success of this transport option.The global objective of this research is to determine the capacity of the Freight Village of Turin. This is motivated by future changes in traffic demand, related with the neighboring Port of Savona-Vado. The role of freight villages and other logistics centers is becoming progressively more substantial with saturating sea ports focusing on handling operations. Existing literature shows success in intermodal transport highly depends on terminal performance.To fulfill the already mentioned objective, a simulation model was developed, based on discrete-event methodology, which simulates rail and handling operation inside the freight village. The model is then used to test several scenarios with the purpose of investigating variation in operation techniques and resources and the respective impact it has on comprehensive capacity.Confronting the tested scenarios allowed to comprehend the inefficiencies of both rail and handling processes, hence concluding that locomotive operation presents the most limiting factor. Furthermore, by combining different operation conditions and resources, it was possible to conclude how these affect final capacity and overall performance.