An Object-Driven Fuzzy Decision Model for Determining Fuel in Boiler Machines

There are many alternative fuel types that can be used by a particular type of engine. Determining which fuel alternative is optimal for an engine presents its own challenges. This is especially true in an industrial setting, where certain standards are necessary to select the best fuel alternative to be used and operated. This study aims to develop a decision model for selecting a fuel type for boiler engines based on specific parameters or criteria. The decision model is designed using an object-oriented approach, utilizing three types of diagrams: object, activity, and sequence. An object-oriented model design approach allows for the decision model to be depicted transparently and very close to reality. Additionally, the analytical hierarchical process (AHP) and fuzzy logic are the core methods employed in constructing the decision model. Then, in developing this decision model, four main criteria or parameters are considered: cost, heating value, safety, and emissions. These four parameters were derived from a literature review and interviews with experts. Among the three evaluated fuel types (i.e., natural gas, industrial diesel oil or IDO, and coal), coal received the highest decision score of 0.78. Thus, based on this decision value―the outcome of the model's recommendation―it can be concluded that coal remains an objective choice as a fuel for use in boiler engines.