Optimization tools for the coal sector of the northern department of Santander

Abstract

Optimization tools have been used in different fields of knowledge, mainly in the solution of logistic problems. Among the most used tools are Ant Colony, Tabu Search, Genetic Algorithms, Simulated Annealing, among other tools that contribute to provide solutions to real problems in different areas and productive sectors. The purpose of this article is to determine the optimization tools that can be used in logistic processes, specifically in the coal sector. For this purpose, a description of the most suitable optimization models was made, among which are the most appropriate heuristic and metaheuristic methods for future implementation in the solution of a logistic problem. In the same way, the importance of including Industry 4.0 tools that are applicable to the problems faced by the coal sector in order to contribute to the optimization of these processes is shown. Next, this article presents a general overview of the logistics processes that are currently carried out in the coal sector of our country, as well as shows a consolidation of heuristic and metaheuristic techniques which would be of great importance to be applied in the coal sector. Additionally, the importance of the inclusion of Industry 4.0 tools that can be included in conjunction with optimization tools and can further enhance the improvement of logistics processes carried out in the coal sector is made known. Finally, we present the results of the application of an initial diagnosis in which 106 coal companies in the department of Norte de Santander were taken as a basis for analysis, with the purpose of inquiring about the inclusion of logistics innovation techniques and tools that allow the adaptation of the tools analyzed in this article. It was concluded that although there is initiative on the part of the companies in the inclusion of techniques and new tools to improve their processes, their inclusion is still low. However, good industrial practices and the support in some cases of public and private institutions are evident, allowing a better understanding and comprehension of the inclusion of tools that support these processes.