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OPTIMIZING MAINTENANCE STRATEGIES FOR ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT IN PVC MANUFACTURING: A MACHINE LEARNING AND SIMULATION FRAMEWORK
Get PDFObjectives: This paper examines real-world data from a PVC manufacturing plant in Saudi Arabia to develop predictive statistical models using machine learning techniques.
Theoretical Framework: A framework to optimize a maintenance strategy in a PVC production line begins with obtaining historical data. This data provides insights into the behavior of each station, highlighting performance patterns, failure rates, and maintenance histories. Analyzing this data helps identify critical areas prone to downtime or inefficiencies.
Method: The method begins with collecting real-world historical data from the PVC manufacturing line for four years, spanning from 2021 to 2024. This data includes key performance metrics, maintenance records, and failure incidents. The collected data was then analyzed using statistical methods to identify trends and patterns in station behavior and downtime. Following this, machine learning techniques were employed, explicitly utilizing a Random-Forest-classifier to classify failure risks and predict future maintenance needs. The model’s performance was validated by comparing it with actual maintenance outcomes to ensure accuracy. Finally, the data analyzed was used to simulate the manufacturing line, enabling the selection of the optimal maintenance strategy to minimize downtime and operational costs for the PVC production process.
Results and Discussion: The results of the simulation study suggest an opportunistic maintenance strategy, as a hybrid approach, is the most effective for the PVC production line. This strategy combines preventive and corrective maintenance elements, offering flexibility in responding to various failure scenarios. The proposed approach can serve as a test environment, allowing for the evaluation of different maintenance strategies under real-world conditions to optimize performance and minimize downtime.
Implications of the Research: This study promotes the adoption of data analytics to drive continuous improvements, contributing to the transition towards Industry 4.0, where the Internet of Things (IoT) plays a central role. By leveraging real-time data, organizations can optimize their processes daily. Additionally, the research proposes using simulation techniques to test maintenance strategies before their actual implementation. This risk-free approach allows for the evaluation of methods in a controlled environment, ultimately leading to significant reductions in both time and costs.
Originality/Value: This study's results are derived from a real-world PVC manufacturing plant in Saudi Arabia, with data collected through site visits and original plant logs. The value of this research lies in its practical application: the approach can be adapted and deployed across various production lines, serving as a benchmark for simulating new maintenance techniques or implementing changes in existing systems. This provides a robust framework for improving operational efficiency and optimizing maintenance strategies in diverse industrial settings. The main objective is to identify common failures and forecast their occurrence based on past incidents. The study employs the Random-Forest-Classifier algorithm to process the dataset and improve prediction accuracy. The results are then integrated into simulation modeling, offering valuable insights into proactive measures and opportunistic maintenance strategies within PVC manufacturing. The research aims to minimize unexpected breakdowns and provide practical recommendations to optimize maintenance practices, thereby improving operational efficiency. The paper concludes with a simulation model that demonstrates how opportunistic actions can enhance Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE) by leveraging insights from the predictive model
THE KINGDOM OF GOD: JESUS’ VISION FOR PEACE
Get PDFObjectives: In this study, I aim to show the way in which Jesus’ concept of the kingdom of God held meaning for peaceable living in his society, Israel under Roman occupation. The study furthermore suggests relevance for present-day peacebuilding.
Theoretical Framework: Jesus’ view of the kingdom, as understood in its historical setting, is framed in the context of peace theory.
Method: The concept of the kingdom of God is evaluated in its historical context, making use of biblical and extra-biblical Jewish texts that circulated adjacent the time of Jesus. This view of the kingdom of God is then compared to relevant ideas from modern-day peace studies.
Results and Discussion: In first-century Israel the concept of the kingdom of God meant that Israel’s God would become king of Israel. Under his kingship the people of Israel, the promised land, and the Temple would be restored, while foreign occupiers would be defeated. Different narratives developed about the establishment of the kingdom. The kingdom of God was Jesus’ way of capturing the way God intended his people to live in peace. Jesus’ vision for peace is both idealist and realist, and calls to repentance in terms of a renewed way of thinking and turning from sins.
Research Implications: This research contributes to the field of peacebuilding. The nature of Jesus’ vision, utopian yet concrete, embedded in local tradition yet challenging existing narratives, provide keys for present-day peacebuilding. Repentance, in its historical context, calls for new ways to think in peacebuilding in which confessing of wrongs, and thinking in new ways are essential in the process of reconciliation.
Originality/Value: Connecting Jesus’ ideas about peace in their historical setting and connecting these with modern peace theory, open up a way to meaningful ideas worthwhile considering for peacebuilding in the context of difficult to solve conflicts
THE USE OF UBUNTU PRINCIPLES IN ENHANCING WELLNESS OF ORPHANS IN A DEVELOPING COUNTRY: DOES IT REALLY WORK?
Get PDFObjectives: This study explores the effectiveness of using Ubuntu, an African philosophy focused on communal interdependence, how Ubuntu-based interventions can address challenges like emotional trauma, social isolation, and resource scarcity, to enhance orphans' emotional, social, and practical well-being.
Theoretical Framework: The study uses Ubuntu and wellness theory as a lens to address orphans' emotional isolation and well-being. Ubuntu focuses on communal interdependence and collective responsibility, while wellness theory advocates for a holistic approach to physical, emotional, social, and spiritual health. Together, these frameworks offer a comprehensive, community-driven model to improve orphans' overall quality of life.
Method: A qualitative research design was used to explore the effectiveness of Ubuntu-based interventions in improving the wellness of orphans in South Africa and Zimbabwe, selected for their cultural alignment with Ubuntu. Thirty (30) participants aged 12-18, were chosen. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observations. Thematic analysis was employed to identify common themes.
Results and Discussion: The study identified key themes on the impact of Ubuntu on orphans' wellness, highlighting improvements in their sense of belonging and community support. Ubuntu-based programs alleviated loneliness, enhanced emotional and psychosocial well-being, and fostered resilience through shared experiences. Additionally, these interventions promoted holistic development by addressing orphans' physical, emotional, and social needs.
Research Implications: The findings emphasize Ubuntu-based interventions as a culturally relevant and sustainable approach to orphan care.
Originality/Value: This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on Ubuntu's applicability in contemporary social interventions, particularly in orphan care.
 
ASSESSING THE MODERATING ROLE OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ON THE LINKAGE BETWEEN PARTICIPATORY MONITORING AND EVALUATION AND SUSTAINABILITY OF VOLUNTOURISM PROJECTS IN THE COASTAL REGION, KENYA
Get PDFObjective: This study examines the moderating role of environmental factors in the relationship between participatory monitoring and evaluation and the sustainability of voluntourism projects in the Coastal region of Kenya.
Theoretical Framework: The study is anchored in stakeholder theory, which emphasizes the role of diverse stakeholders in shaping project outcomes. It also incorporates sustainability theory, highlighting the influence of external environmental factors on the long-term viability of voluntourism projects.
Method: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study targeted 20 voluntourism projects, with a total of 1004 respondents comprising 20 project managers, 452 employees, and 532 community representatives. All project managers were interviewed, while a proportionate sample of 130 employees and 154 community representatives completed structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics applied.
Results and Discussion: Findings reveal that environmental factors significantly moderate the relationship between participatory monitoring and evaluation and project sustainability (R² = 0.427, p < 0.05). Enhanced stakeholder involvement, community empowerment, and effective negotiation processes improve project sustainability when aligned with favorable environmental conditions.
Research Implications: The study underscores the importance of integrating environmental considerations into participatory monitoring and evaluation frameworks for improved project sustainability. Policymakers should formulate voluntourism policies that align with stakeholder preferences and local environmental conditions. Project managers should focus on empowering communities and fostering negotiation strategies that enhance sustainability. Future research should explore longitudinal assessments of voluntourism projects and comparative studies across different regions.
Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing literature on voluntourism and project management by providing empirical evidence on the moderating effect of environmental factors. It offers practical recommendations for policymakers, project managers, and community stakeholders to enhance the sustainability of voluntourism initiatives
UTILIZATION OF ELECTRONIC BILLING AND SERVICE DELIVERY IN SELECTED PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN KENYA
Get PDFObjective: The study sought to evaluate how electronic billing system utilization influences service delivery in Kenyan public hospitals.
Theoretical Framework: The study applied the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to understand how perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness influence the adoption of electronic billing systems in Kenyan public hospitals. TAM was used to assess how utilization of electronic billing systems improve service delivery through enhanced efficiency, transparency, and reduced billing errors.
Method: A pragmatic research paradigm was employed coupled with correlational and descriptive research design. Both primary and secondary data was used. Primary data was collected by use of semi-structured questionnaires. Thematic analysis was used to assess qualitative data. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive such as mean, percentages, standard deviation and frequencies. Inferential statistics included correlation analysis and regression analysis.
Results and Discussion: The correlation results showed that the use of electronic billing and service delivery in public hospitals are positively correlated (r=0.717, p-value=0.000). Regression results revealed that the utilization of electronic billing (billing accuracy and inclusion of all services and medical supplies used) had a positive influence on public hospitals’ service delivery (β1=0.786, p-value=0.000). From the findings, the research recommends that public hospitals should adopt electronic billing fully to cover development of the bill, invoicing, payment and receipting so as to reduce costs of service delivery and makes it easy to issue drugs.
Research Implications: The findings contribute to practice by offering valuable insights for healthcare administrators and policymakers in Kenya. Full adoption of electronic billing systems can enhance service efficiency, reduce financial errors, and improve resource management, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and streamlined hospital operations.
Originality/Value: This study enriches existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the positive impact of electronic billing utilization on service delivery in Kenyan public hospitals. It offers a foundation for future research on digital health interventions and supports policy formulation aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability in healthcare service provision
IMPACTO DEL MANTENIMIENTO INDUSTRIAL, EQUIPO, MAQUINARIA, MATERIA PRIMA, MÉTODOS DE TRABAJO Y MANO DE OBRA EN EL NIVEL DE SIX SIGMA EN UNA PYME: ESTUDIO DEL CASO DE BLOQUERA MEDINA EN EL MUNICIPIO DE SAN PEDRO CHOLULA, PUEBLA
Get PDFObjetivos: Este estudio busca implementar Six Sigma en la empresa "Bloquera Medina" de San Pedro Cholula, Puebla, para reducir defectos en bloques de construcción, optimizar recursos y mejorar la competitividad en el mercado local.
Marco Teórico: Six Sigma, introducido por Motorola en 1987, es una herramienta de mejora continua que integra métodos como el Control Estadístico de Procesos (SPC) y la Administración de la Calidad Total (TQM). Mediante el modelo DMAIC (Definir, Medir, Analizar, Mejorar, Controlar), busca reducir variaciones para alcanzar una tasa de defectos de 3.4 por millón de oportunidades. Este estudio examina la aplicabilidad de Six Sigma en una PYME de construcción.
Método: Se utilizó el modelo DMAIC. En la fase de Definición se identificaron áreas problemáticas; en Medición se emplearon diagramas de Ishikawa y Pareto para analizar defectos; en Análisis se aplicaron los “5 porqués” para determinar causas raíz; en Mejora se implementaron capacitaciones y mantenimiento, y en Control se establecieron controles preventivos.
Resultados y Discusión: La implementación de Six Sigma redujo defectos, alcanzando un nivel de 4.01 Sigmas y una disminución del 61.44% en desperdicios. Se lograron ahorros en costos de mano de obra, materiales y equipo, aunque se enfrentaron desafíos, como la resistencia del personal al cambio.
Implicaciones de la Investigación: Este estudio demuestra que Six Sigma es efectivo en PYMEs de construcción, sugiriendo que esta metodología puede mejorar la competitividad en empresas pequeñas.
Originalidad/Valor: El estudio aporta un enfoque innovador al aplicar Six Sigma en una PYME de construcción en México, mostrando cómo pequeñas empresas pueden beneficiarse de metodologías avanzadas de calidad para reducir desperdicios y mejorar su productividad
EXAMINING THE ROLE OF FOOD WASTE MANAGEMENT IN COST EFFICIENCY WITHIN GREECE'S TOURISM INDUSTRY
Get PDFObjective: The purpose and purpose of this study is to examine how food waste is managed in the tourism sector (hotels and restaurants) that offer food in Greece and how they deal with the relationship between food waste and the cost of operating their food service divisions.
Theoretical Framework: Recent literature has reported on important aspects of food waste in the tourism sector. However, there is much more to be explored and implemented. This paper investigates the critical role of food waste management in cost optimization within the Greek tourism industry.
Method: The study is based on a literature review on the food wastage of foodservice operators in the tourism sector in Greece managing food waste and how they address the relationship between food waste and the operating costs of food service divisions.
Results and Discussion: A review of the literature suggests that the issue of food waste, particularly in hotels and restaurants, has been much more researched in the last five years. The results showed multiple approaches, namely: preventing food waste, donating uneaten food to those in need, recycling and composting leftovers, taking advantage of technological developments and raising awareness about food waste.
Research Implications: The study is expected to enrich theoretical developments on food waste in the tourism sector. The findings are also expected to shed light on multiple approaches to food waste, especially in hotels and restaurants.
Originality / Value: Multiple approaches to food waste in the tourism sector are reported
ANÁLISE DA AUTOMAÇÃO NO PROCESSO PRODUTIVO DO PETRÓLEO: UM ESTUDO DE CASO EM UM POÇO COM BSC
Get PDFObjetivo: Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar os impactos da automação em um poço de petróleo que utiliza o bombeio centrífugo submerso (BCS)
Referencial Teórico: Neste tópico, são apresentados os principais conceitos como método de elevação, focando na eficiência operacional e no desempenho econômico em uma área de uma grande empresa petrolífera nacional. Fundamenta-se na aplicação de sistemas de automação em processos industriais, destacando a importância da supervisão remota e da integração tecnológica no setor de petróleo.
Método: A metodologia adotada para esta pesquisa compreende Utilizou-se da comparação sistemática do processo antes e após a implementação da automação, por meio de dados operacionais históricos e resultados obtidos com o novo sistema.
Resultados e Discussão: Os resultados obtidos demonstraram uma significativa redução nos custos com mão-de-obra, aumento da receita gerada pelo poço e expansão das variáveis monitoradas, permitindo um acompanhamento mais detalhado e confiável do processo.
Implicações da Pesquisa: As implicações práticas e teóricas desta pesquisa são discutidas sobre a ótica da automação, além de otimizar a eficiência do processo, também alinha a operação aos padrões mais avançados de gestão tecnológica no setor, promovendo maior sustentabilidade e competitividade
Originalidade/Valor: Este estudo contribui para a literatura dos poços de petróleo BSC, bem como verificou-se que o controle automático efetua ganhos em torno de 27% em relação ao controle manual. Um segundo benefício a ser considerado, após a integração do poço com a sala de controle, foi uma identificação mais rápida dos vazamentos.Objetivo: Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar os impactos da automação em um poço de petróleo que utiliza o bombeio centrífugo submerso (BCS)
Referencial Teórico: Neste tópico, são apresentados os principais conceitos como método de elevação, focando na eficiência operacional e no desempenho econômico em uma área de uma grande empresa petrolífera nacional. Fundamenta-se na aplicação de sistemas de automação em processos industriais, destacando a importância da supervisão remota e da integração tecnológica no setor de petróleo.
Método: A metodologia adotada para esta pesquisa compreende Utilizou-se da comparação sistemática do processo antes e após a implementação da automação, por meio de dados operacionais históricos e resultados obtidos com o novo sistema.
Resultados e Discussão: Os resultados obtidos demonstraram uma significativa redução nos custos com mão-de-obra, aumento da receita gerada pelo poço e expansão das variáveis monitoradas, permitindo um acompanhamento mais detalhado e confiável do processo.
Implicações da Pesquisa: As implicações práticas e teóricas desta pesquisa são discutidas sobre a ótica da automação, além de otimizar a eficiência do processo, também alinha a operação aos padrões mais avançados de gestão tecnológica no setor, promovendo maior sustentabilidade e competitividade
Originalidade/Valor: Este estudo contribui para a literatura dos poços de petróleo BSC, bem como verificou-se que o controle automático efetua ganhos em torno de 27% em relação ao controle manual. Um segundo benefício a ser considerado, após a integração do poço com a sala de controle, foi uma identificação mais rápida dos vazamentos
SITUATING SOCIAL GROUP WORK AS A METHOD OF SOCIAL WORK INTERVENTION IN THE ECONOMIC INCLUSION OF WOMEN, YOUTH, AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN SOUTH AFRICA
Get PDFObjective: The purpose of this study is to situate social group work as a mode of social work intervention in the economic inclusion of South African women, youth, and people with disabilities. Financial social workers should carry out these interventions.
Theoretical Framework: This paper has adopted two theoretical frameworks: the empowerment approach and social development theory. There is no doubt that individuals experiencing poverty and unemployment are categorized as disempowered. This also applies to women, youth, and persons with disabilities in South Africa. Therefore, interventions that seek to empower them are of great importance. Conversely, social development refers to a broader developmental process's 'social aspects'. It integrates economic, ecological, political, gender, and social dimensions into a multifaceted approach aimed at improving living standards and promoting the well-being of individuals
Method: This desktop paper uses a literature review as its research approach. The literature evaluation draws on various sources, including media, government publications, academic articles from journals, and theses and dissertations.
Results and Discussion: The results and discussions in the paper indicate that different types of group work are relevant for achieving the economic inclusion agenda of women, youth, and persons with disabilities. The issues of poverty and unemployment, along with their effects, are common concerns for women, youth, and persons with disabilities. To address this, self-help groups are essential, as they allow members to be active participants and decision-makers on matters that provide opportunities for economic inclusion.
Research Implications: Financial social workers must conduct research to assess and establish the scale of economic exclusion of women, youth, and people with disabilities to identify those who may require economic empowerment interventions using group work as a method of practice in social work
Originality/Value: Financial social work is a new area of specialization in South Africa, and it has received little attention despite its potential importance in improving people's socioeconomic conditions, particularly those affected by poverty, unemployment, and other economic shocks
ESTIMATIVA DE EMISSÕES DE CO2 NA MOBILIDADE DO CORPO DISCENTE DA GRADUAÇÃO DO CEFET/RJ – MARACANÃ
Get PDFObjetivo: Este trabalho tem como objetivo quantificar as emissões de CO2 oriundas da locomoção dos estudantes do Cefet/RJ (Campus Maracanã) de seus domicílios ou locais de trabalho até a instituição, através de um questionário online.
Referencial Teórico: O referencial teórico aborda o crescimento urbano e seus impactos ambientais, destacando a importância de políticas eficazes para reduzir as emissões de CO2.
Método: Foi realizada uma pesquisa exploratória quantitativa utilizando um questionário online com oito questões fechadas e duas abertas. A análise revelou que aproximadamente dois quintos dos estudantes utilizam de dois a três modais de transporte para se locomover até a instituição, com o transporte rodoviário sendo o mais utilizado. As emissões totais semestrais de CO2 foram estimadas entre 172.884,5 kg e 199.760,1 kg.
Resultados e Discussão: A comparação entre os modais mostrou que o uso de transporte público resultaria em emissões significativamente menores em comparação ao uso de carros. Os resultados indicam a necessidade de políticas urbanas que incentivem o uso do transporte público coletivo e a educação ecológica dos estudantes. Este estudo é original ao quantificar as emissões de CO2 na mobilidade urbana dos estudantes de uma instituição de ensino público superior no Brasil.
Implicações da Pesquisa: Este estudo é original ao quantificar as emissões de CO2 na mobilidade urbana dos estudantes de uma instituição de ensino público superior no Brasil.
Originalidade/Valor: Ele oferece valor ao fornecer dados concretos que podem embasar políticas públicas e ações institucionais voltadas para a sustentabilidade e a redução de impactos ambientais