Process identification and control studies for a temperature control model plant

This paper is about the study made on a laboratory scale, PID-controlled Temperature Control Model Plant. The adaptive model of the process is identified for the purpose of developing a computer simulation program that can be used to tune the PID controller, either for the purpose of training inexperienced individuals or for preventing the immediate wear of the controller. The transfer functions of the resistance thermometer, the pneumatic valve and the process bath were determined and were then used for the identification of an adaptive model. By introducing a step change to each component, recording their response, and through the analysis of each, the transfer function of the resistance thermometer was found to be first order. Then, the transfer function of the valve was obtained to be considerably zero-order. While a second-order transfer function for the process bath was identified. Through the above analysis of the system, the over-all closed loop transfer function was determined. Then, the mathematical model of the closed loop system was simulated using Turbo Pascal program and the algorithm was based on the Runge-Kutta integration technique. Lastly, an operations guide manual was also created to guide users about the proper operation of the Temperature Control Model Plant