CHEN451 Process Control

Course Description
A course covering the concepts of feedback control systems in the chemical and process
industry. The course involves dynamic modeling, design and analysis of dynamic control
systems. The course is synchronized with a laboratory component CHEN451L which provides
hands on experience with various control applications.

Prerequisites
CHEN 351 Instrumentation and Measurements
CHEN 312 Separation Processes

Credit hours
3 credit hours

Class schedule:
Two 50 minutes lectures per week.
Two hours lab per week

Text Book
Introduction to Process Control, Jose A. Romagnoli and Ahmet Palazoglu, CRC 2012

References
1. Process Dynamics and Control, 3rd edition, D.E. Seborg, T.F. Edgar, D.E. Mellichamp and
F.J. Doyle III, Wiley 2010
2. Process Dynamics, Modeling and Control, B.A. Ogunnake and W.H. Ray, Oxford Press
1994
3. Process Control: Designing Processes and Control Systems for Dynamic Performance, 2nd
edition, T.E. Marlin, McGraw-Hill 2000
4. Chemical Process Control: An Introduction to Theory and Practice, George
Stephanopoulos, Prentice Hall 1984

Course Topics
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Theoretical Models of Chemical Processes

Laplace Transforms, Transfer Functions and State-Space Models
Dynamic Behavior of First-Order and Second-Order Systems
Open-Loop and Closed-Loop Stability Analysis
PID Controller Design, Analysis and Tuning
FeedForward, Cascade, Internal Model Control, Smith Predictor and Multiloop Control
Overview of Advanced control: Model Predictive Control and Optimization

Grading
1 Midterm and 1 Final
Laboratory assignments
Final project

50% (20% and 30% respectively)

30%
20%

Students have to pass the lecture exam components (Mid and Final) in order to pass this
course.

Final Project

A final year project is part of the course requirements where students are divided into small
teams to work on a specific process control case study. The Lab component of this course
will give you hands-on experience with the implementation of the project on a real-time
physical system.
You are expected to write a report or give a presentation about the project. More details on
the project and the final report will be given during the semester.

Academic Conduct
Students are expected to practice and uphold standards of academic integrity and honesty.
Examples of dishonesty: cheating in exams and homework; plagiarizing the work of others.
However, legitimate collaboration and team working is encouraged but academic dishonesty
will not be tolerated. All students must pass the plagiarism test.

Make-up tests
No make-up test will be given for a missed midterm. Special cases (such as absence with
doctors notice) will be studied on an individual basis if the notice is received at least by the
same day of the test.

Specific Outcomes of Instruction

Model dynamic chemical processes and design appropriate feedback control systems.
Learn the concepts of feedback control theory and performance analysis techniques
of open-loop and closed-loop systems.
Tuning PID controllers in a single loop and in interactive multiple-loops.
Gain experience with commonly used control system software (Matlab/Simulink,
LoopPro and Labview).
Ability to work in a team (enhanced team and interpersonal skills).
Improved communications skills through report writing or presentations.

Student Outcomes Addressed by the Course

Ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering.

Ability to design a system to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as
economic, environmental and safety.
Ability to identify, formulate and solve engineering problems.
Ability to use the techniques, skills and modern engineering tools necessary for
engineering practice