Using simulation to assess the service reliability of a train maintenance depot

This paper describes the construction of a discrete‐event simulation model of a proposed train maintenance depot for an underground transportation facility in the UK. The company who were bidding to operate the depot had traditionally been involved in manufacture and so had no experience of either operating such a facility or meeting the type of performance indicators specified in the service‐level agreement. The simulation proved successful in providing a greater understanding of the operation of the depot and the effect of various strategies for meeting demand. It also proved to be an excellent communication tool during the bid process in helping to show capability to the client in meeting proposed service level targets over time and thus prove service reliability.