Integration of Monte Carlo simulation and chi-square automatic interaction detector algorithm for modelling and estimation of conventional power plant construction volumes

This study presents an integrated approach based on chi‐square automatic interaction detector (CHAID) algorithm, computer simulation and statistical tools for optimum modelling and estimation of power plant construction volumes. In this context, modelling applications in estimation of structural volumes in power plants is described. The required information for cabling volumes such as low‐pressure and cable platter are collected from an actual power plant construction company. Since some of these projects cannot respond to essential data volume for modelling, Monte Carlo simulation method is used in this study to generate the required data. Moreover, based on existing information and experts' judgement, sufficient data will be generated. Then, using the simulated data, CHAID is introduced and used for estimation of construction volumes. This is the first study that integrates simulation and CHAID for optimum modelling of conventional power plant construction volumes.