Process Control Troubleshooting for operators

---

Operators are the first point of attack in identifying and troubleshooting pulp and paper process control problems. However, they often lack the understanding of control loop performance issues to be effective in dealing with these problems. 

The one-day operator course is a practical, results oriented course. It is designed to give operators the basic skills and tools to identify and communicate process control problems. Approximately 30% of the course is devoted to a computer-based DCS-like process simulator, where the attendee practices the concepts presented during the lectures. 

  The course begins with an overview of process variability and its impact on pulp and paper processes.  The functioning of the feedback control loop and its role in minimizing variation is covered next. The open loop bump test procedure is reviewed as a method to measure loop dynamics and diagnose loop performance problems such as poor sensor and valve performance. The impact of controller tuning on loop capability is explored. 

Analytical techniques to identify and correct process control problems is the final topic. Approximately 30% of the course is devoted to a computer-based lab, where the student demonstrates that they have understood the main concepts.

The course is designed for process operators, shift supervisors, operations engineers. 

• Control loop fundamentals and terminology
• Function of the control loop 
• Loop Dynamics
• Understanding Control Loop Performance
• Loop performance targets
• Analytical control loop troubleshooting procedures

The registration fee for the OPCT course is CDN $1000 or $ US 800 (taxes included. 

The course fee include a full set of course notes (hardcopy or pdf), the lab simulator and course handouts.  

Doug has over 30 years of pulp and paper process control experience. He has authored papers on paper machine dryer control, control valve selection and the uses of process simulation in optimization surveys.