Case Studies

Fluxys LNG is the operator of the LNG receiving terminal at Zeebrugge and is part of Fluxys which since the demerger in 2001, is an independent natural gas transport company. As
a leader in the transport sector in the heart of Europe, Fluxys LNG plays a key role in the
management of flows in the European gas market.

Ford have invested significantly in the Six Sigma Breakthrough Methodology in an effort to improve long term competitiveness through driving down waste and improving process performance, so that there is a positive impact on the customer. Ford was also one of the first companies to adopt WITNESS simulation to help develop effective manufacturing facilities.

Ford have been using WITNESS since the mid-1980s to speed up the design of their engine manufacturing facilities. In that time many engine assembly lines have been simulated, with the model results being used to justify design decisions.   

Ford has been using computer simulation for designing and operating its engine manufacturing facilities since the mid ’80s. WITNESS is available worldwide to all Powertrain users. Today, Ford regards simulation as an indispensable tool in production planning—and one which can provide what the company describes as “an enormous competitive advantage.” John Ladbrook, from the Productivity Engineering section at Ford's Powertrain Manufacturing and Plant Engineering Group, has been at the forefront in waging the crusade to incorporate simulation in the manufacturing process. In this article he describes how simulation has developed over the years.