Operations optimization and control design for a petroleum distillation process

AbstractProcess automation involves both steady‐state optimization and feedback control. In this paper, the economic optimum steady‐state operating conditions for a petroleum crude distillation process are determined using a tray‐to‐tray model. This model is used to evaluate the steady‐state operation achieved with several multivariable process control designs. Only one controller design was found to result in essentially optimum steady‐state operation; others deviated significantly. The method applied in this paper relies on a knowledge of the key disturbances occurring in the process; good economic performance may not be obtained should other disturbance types occur. The results demonstrate the importance of implementing the operations optimization through a control strategy which will respond properly to disturbances.

Operations optimization and control design for a petroleum distillation process Journal Articles