Merges

Merge nodes combine material from multiple upstream paths into a single downstream flow. They represent points in your process where parallel branches come back together, such as after parallel machines, alternate processing steps, or inspection loops.

In ReliaSim, merges accept incoming material using either proportional or priority-based behavior. With proportional merging, flow from each upstream path is combined based on defined ratios, making it useful for balancing contributions from parallel sources. With priority-based merging, upstream connections are ordered by importance, and material from higher-priority paths is accepted first whenever available. This allows you to model situations where certain inputs take precedence over others.

Merge nodes are commonly paired with split nodes to represent parallel processing patterns: material is routed down separate branches, processed independently, and then recombined downstream. This structure is useful for modeling parallel equipment, alternative routing paths, or converging process steps.

Merge nodes also help expose synchronization effects within a system. If one upstream path operates more slowly or experiences interruptions, it can influence how material recombines downstream—even when other paths are performing well. Replay is especially helpful for observing how imbalances between branches lead to waiting, starvation, or accumulation.

When building a model, merge nodes should be placed where separate flows logically converge. As with splits, it’s best to focus on meaningful process structure rather than minor layout details. Starting with simple proportional or priority configurations is usually sufficient, and you can refine routing behavior later as you better understand how parallel paths interact.