Scheduling of casting in real foundries using linear programming

This study develops a simple and convenient scheduling methodology using linear programming (LP) for three typical and distinctive production situations in real foundries: sand casting, low-pressure casting, and a combination of sand casting, low-pressure casting, and automated casting. Proposed to determine an optimal casting sequence, this methodology is successfully applied to all casting environments that produce simultaneously various types of castings with different alloys and weights in a number of orders within a predetermined period. It can also generate accurate scheduling results for maximized furnace or ingot efficiency. The presented LP formulation provides a practical solution that can be implemented in general casting plants. Hopefully, the proposed LP scheduling method will assist the casting industry to strengthen its competence by achieving cost minimization and fulfillment of the production requirement within a due date.