Oct
22
When developing a PLS models for quality parameter prediction, the deviation of measurement values from their mean must be shifted in time to account for the time required for a change in the input to impact the quality parameter. Similarly, these delays should be taken into account in the processing of the deviation values used …
Oct
15
The process operating points of a continuous process can shift with changes in the product grade that is manufactured. One example of this is a continuous reactor in which the target for output composition changes with product grades. To change the output composition, it is often necessary to change the operating point of one or …
Oct
08
The prediction of quality parameters using Partial Least Squares (PLS) models is often the preferred technique when dealing with collinear data where multiple process input changes impact similar process output measurements. Predictions based on this linear technique can be used to extrapolate outside the data range used in model development. Process interactions may be accounted …
Oct
01
One of the key objectives of a process control system is to maintain product quality parameters within specification. On-line analyzers that automatically provide measurements of material properties to the control system may be too expensive, may have proven to be unreliable, or simply may not be available because of the complexity of the sampling system …
Sep
17
I worked closely with Emerson’s education department to establish the class Control Loop Foundation (9025). This 4 ½ day class is intended primarily for people who are new to the process industry and process control. Approximately 30% of the class is dedicated to workshops in which the students get hands on experience working with the …
Sep
10
A workshop is provided at the end of each chapter of Advanced Control Foundation – Tools, Techniques, and Applications that explores the technology. One of the unique features of the book is that the reader may view the workshop solution by going to the web site (http://www.advancedcontrolfoundation.com. ) that accompanies the book. All you need …
Sep
03
Last week Mark Nixon, Willy Wojsznis and I completed the final type set review of Advanced Control Foundation – Tools, Techniques, and Applications. It is always a good feeling to reach this point when writing a book. As I mentioned in an earlier blog, Advanced Control Foundation – Tools, Techniques and Applications will be available …
Aug
13
This year Emerson Exchange will be held October 8-12, 2012 – Hilton Anaheim in Anaheim, California. A number of meet the expert sessions are scheduled for the last day of the conference, Friday, October 12th . Willy Worjsznis and I will host one meet the expert session in which we will give an overview of …
Aug
06
Many of the advanced control products available in the DeltaV control system can be traced to an advanced control research and development program established within Emerson Process Management in the early 1990s. The ISA book Advanced Control Unleashed – Plant Performance Management for Optimum Benefit, published in 2003, included examples based on advanced control software …
Jul
30
Courses required for an engineering degree are designed to provide the student with a sound technical foundation for work in industry. However, in most cases these courses do not address the terminology and common practices that an engineer must know to design, implement, checkout and commission a process control system. Universities can help bridge this …
