Distillation: Introduction
to Control
By Jim Riggs
ABSTRACT: Approximately 40,000 distillation columns are operated in the U.S. chemical process industries and they comprise 95% of the separation processes for these industries. Because distillation operation directly affects product quality, process production rates and utility usage, the economic importance of distillation control is clear. Distillation control is a challenging problem because of the following factors: Process nonlinearity, Multivariable coupling, Severe disturbances, and Nonstationary behavior.
Distillation: Major Disturbances & First-Level Control
By Jim Riggs
ABSTRACT: In the first article of this series, we discussed the importance and challenges associated with distillation control and the control relevant issues of distillation operations. Here the author continue the discussion by presenting the major disturbances affecting composition control and the importance of properly functioning regulatory controls.
Distillation: Inferential Temperature Control & Single-Ended Control
By Jim Riggs
ABSTRACT: In this article, the author discusses the use of product composition measurements in distillation column control. He also explores single composition strategies where either the top or bottom product composition is controlled while the other is allowed to float.
Distillation: Dual Composition Control & Constraint Control
By Jim Riggs
ABSTRACT: This final segment of the series considers advanced issues including dual composition control and constraint control.