Advanced Process Control

APC is a model-based predictive control technique that calculates the optimal operating point and controls the process-dependent variables (e.g. conversion and yield) by controlling the process values ​​(e.g. material flows, pressures, temperatures).

The APC controller thus represents an efficient and experienced operator who precisely understands the plant dynamics based on historical data, derives predictions about the plant behavior from this, and thus controls the plant at its optimum operating level.

And this 24/7 with uninterrupted attention.

AspenTech is one of the global leaders in the APC industry. ASPEN APC offers the following advantages:

• Data mining AI machine learning algorithms support a guided automated workflow that previously required a control expert
• Drastic reduction in technical effort and time for creating and deploying APC models
• Creating models remotely
• Extending APC benefits to new industries where APC has previously been used only to a limited extent
• Continuous adaptation of the simulation model on the system side
• Optimization of the model and testing during operation
• Easy to use with self-guided & intuitive tools with integrated AI

• Increased throughput
• Improved yields
• Reduced energy consumption
• Lower operating costs
• Improved quality consistency
• Increased operational flexibility
• Improved process stability
• Improved reliability & security

• Qualitative or quantitative feasibility study for the implementation of APC
• Implementation of APC
  • Project Definition – APC Controller Strategy & Objectives
  • Pre-test - creation of a seed model
  • Plant Step Test
  • Completion of the models and controller configuration
  • Controller online tuning
  • Review and update of existing APC model

reference

• Qualitative feasibility study for the implementation of APC (Sasol Marl)