Masters Theses
Date of Award
12-1981
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Major
Chemical Engineering
Major Professor
Charles F. Moore
Committee Members
Duane D. Bruns
Abstract
This work compares the performance of several multivariable control strategies on the control of a simple binary distillation column. The study is based on a detailed nonlinear simulation of a 20 tray n-octane/n-pentane column.
An extensive analysis of the column was conducted to find its steady-state gains and to fit more sophisticated models (first order lag, second order lag) to it. The distillate and bottoms compositions were controlled by manipulating the distillate flowrate and the steam rate to the reboiler. A relative gain analysis was done to determine the best way to pair controller loops in a non-decoupled scheme. A v-canonical decoupler and the different types of p-canonical decouplers were added and any improvement in response noted. Various degrees of decoupler element sophistication (steady-state, lead-lag, etc) were also examined. New-variable techniques were investigated, and steady-state singular value decomposition was used in a more advanced control scheme. Finally, the results were discussed and compared to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each control method.
Recommended Citation
Keeton, Joe M., "Multivariable control of a binary distillation column. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1981.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/15220