Instrumentation of Distillation Column Using Open-Source Platforms

Cyber-physical systems, many claims, are the solution to the never-ending problem of increasing production efficiency in automated industries, and like with many other new technologies, it comes with its own set of challenges that need to be overcome before businesses are willing to make the jump. The objective of this thesis was to create a new remote control and monitoring system for a distillation column using open-source technologies, and in doing so, evaluate their viability in tackling some of the problems of implementing CPS in the industry. An initial prototype was designed using a Controllino MEGA as the PLC with DS18B20 temperature sensors placed at key points in the distillation column for a good temperature profile of the distillation process. MQTT is the chosen communications protocol and Node-Red the tool used to create a functioning SCADA system. The project reached a satisfying cutting point with the temperature monitoring system implemented. It can showcase the potential of the technologies used in the industry; however further work needs to be done to complete the control system before a more conclusive verdict can be achieved