Dynamic control of sensor and actuator failures in multivariable distillation column

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of sensor and actuator failures in the operation of a multivariable distillation column. Several failure scenarios are evaluated including failures of sensors and actuators in various scales of magnitudes and durations. The results obtained illustrate the ability of process controllers in suppressing the impact of these unwanted events. Closed-loop dynamic responses of the process revealed capabilities of these controllers in dealing with upsets that are small in magnitude and duration. In the case of larger and longer process upsets, process controllers are not adequate in providing the necessary corrective measures. This leaves the necessary interventions to be taken by the plant operators, following alarms that would have been triggered in typical plant operation scenario.