(147c) Best Practices in Column Control Distilled

The authors recently combined efforts to cover distillation column control in a series of articles*. This presentation summarizes our views on what we believe represent best practices for distillation column control. Topics covered include selecting the regulatory control structure based on the given objectives and typical disturbances, selecting the best tray for temperature or soft sensor control, and when dual-ended composition control is warranted.

Also discussed are algorithm selection, PID tuning considerations, managing constraints, and when to consider Model Predictive Ccontrol (MPC). Guidance is also provided on the role of simulation and when to consider optimization.

Examples drawn from experience are provided to reinforce the recommendations.

*"Better Column Control Distilled – Part 1(-5)” in Control Talk, McMillan, G., Control Global, July (-December) 2022.