Multivariable control with adjustment by decoupling using a distributed action approach in a distillation column

Abstract

Abstract Abstract This paper presents an approach which uses a multivariable control strategy with distributed action in order to minimize operation transients in distillation columns when a disturbance in the temperature feed is introduced. Experiments were carried out adjusting multivariable PID controllers by static decoupling of the temperature loops of the bottom and distillate trays, characterizing a 2 × 2 system. The dynamics was compared to the distributed approach (same controllers on the bottom and top and an additional control loop on a tray). The controllers adjustment of this new system (3 × 3) was carried out considering the temperature control loop stage in two different ways: decentralized and coupled with the bottom and top temperature control loops. The minimization of transients was verified in both distributed approaches.