Modelling a continuous process with discrete simulation techniques and its application to LNG supply chains

We discuss the problem of modelling an LNG supply chain efficiently. The production, processing, transportation and consumption of LNG (liquid natural gas) and the associated products are a topic of major interest in the energy industry. While the problem is apparently continuous, analysis suggests that this problem can be modelled using discrete, deterministic techniques. A method involving a modification of the three phase discrete technique was used. Analysis of the way in which the effects of an event spread leads to a method by which excessive recalculation can be avoided, yielding a model that is computationally very efficient.