Sankey diagrams, often termed as stream graph diagrams, are a type of flow diagram utilized for visualizing the quantitative flow of material, cost, or energy between different parts of a system. As complex as they may seem at first glance, they possess a unique ability to simplify intricate systems by illustrating how energy or materials move from source to destination. Mastery over the art of Sankey diagrams can be instrumental in various fields, from environmental policy and industrial waste management to the study of business processes. This article aims to decipher the flow and guide you through the mastering of Sankey diagrams for material flows analysis.
Understanding the Basics of Sankey Diagrams
To begin, one must delve into the fundamentals of Sankey diagrams. Conceived in the late 19th century, Sankey diagrams were initially developed by Sir Mark Sankey, an English engineers’ inspector, to visualize the energy conversion processes in plants or systems. The basic components of a Sankey diagram are:
1. Arrows – Represent the flow of material, cost, energy, or information.
2. Pipes – Arrows are placed inside a “pipe,” which narrows at the points of high flow and widens at the points of low flow, indicating the size of the energy or material flow.
3. Boxes – Boxes at the start and end of the diagram signify the sources and sinks of the system, while other boxes represent components within the system.
4. Segments – Each segment of a pipe between two boxes shows the flow between two components.
Visual Hierarchy in Sankey Diagrams
The design of a Sankey diagram reflects a hierarchical structure of flows. The diagram should visually signify the magnitude of flows between components, with the most significant flows depicted largest. This hierarchy aids in quick comprehension, allowing viewers to quickly identify the primary energy or material flows.
Key Elements for Effective Sankey Diagram Design
To ensure the clarity and comprehensiveness of your Sankey diagram, consider the following elements:
1. Scale Consistency: Maintain consistent scales across all flow segments to avoid misleading interpretations.
2. Simplify Components: Break down complex processes into simpler, more understandable components.
3. Arrange Components: Organize components logically to reflect the physical or conceptual flow of material or energy.
4. Choose Appropriate Representations: Opt for colors, shapes, or labels that make the diagram easy to understand and visually appealing.
Using Sankey Diagrams in Material Flows Analysis
Sankey diagrams are particularly valuable in material flows analysis for several reasons:
**1. Identifying Hotspots:** Sankey diagrams help highlight components or processes within a system where the flow of material or energy is particularly concentrated, allowing for targeted attention and improvement.
**2. Process Optimization:** By revealing the distribution of flows, they help in optimizing processes and resource allocation, leading to greater efficiency and sustainability.
**3. Comparing Systems:** Sankey diagrams can be used to compare different processes, systems, or technologies to evaluate their performance and make informed decisions.
**4. Communicating Complex Data:** The intuitive nature of Sankey diagrams makes it easier to explain complex data to a broader audience, including non-experts.
Mastering Sankey Diagrams
As with any graphical skill, mastering Sankey diagrams takes practice. Here are some recommendations to improve your ability to apply and interpret Sankey diagrams:
**1. Practice and Sample Diagrams:** Explore sample Sankey diagrams from various fields and analyze their design, hierarchy, and the message they convey.
**2. Use Sankey Software:** While understanding the principles of Sankey diagrams, leveraging software tools like Gephi, SankeyFlow, or Power BI can aid in creating and manipulating diagrams quickly.
**3. Learn from Experts:** Engage with professionals who have experience in Sankey diagrams to gain insights and feedback on your work.
**4. Apply Sankey Diagrams in Your Field:** Use Sankey diagrams in your own research, projects, or professional development to gain practical experience and refine your skills.
In summary, deciphering the flow using Sankey diagrams is an art that requires attention to detail, understanding of system dynamics, and the ability to convey information effectively. By mastering this art, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle material flows analysis and communicate complex system information with clarity.
