Assignment 1

Tuning feedback loops

Consider the typical control system for the double-effect evaporator
shown in Fig. I. Evaporators are characterized by slow dynamics. The
composition of the product out of the last effect is controlled by
manipulating the steam to the first effect. The design feed rate and
composition are 50,000 lb/h and 5.0 weight %, respectively. Using a
Simulink simulation for the given transfer functions 1 () and 2 ()
plot the open-loop step response of the product composition for a change
of 0.75% by weight in the composition of the solution entering the first
effect. Plot the response of the product composition to a change of 2.5%
in controller output. The composition sensor/transmitter has a range of 10
to 35 weight %. The transmitter gain has been included in 1 () and
5.12 130 17.07 96
2 (). 1 () = & 2 () = .
450 +1 141 +1
Identify 1 () using fit 1 parameters for a first order plus dead time
process. Tune a proportional-integral controller for quarter decay ratio
response. Tune a PI controller for 5% overshoot, using the controller
synthesis method. Plot the closed loop response of the plant for both
controllers.

Figure I Double-effect evaporator for Problem