Methodology for Applying Control System Analysis Techniques, 1993 Process Control, Electrical & Information Conference Proceedings

David B. Ender

Process control systems in pulp and paper mills, convert raw materials and energy into usable products normally through an intricate series of processing steps. Each successive unit operation, introduces variation which can accumulate throughout the process and be reflected in the final product quality and the overall cost of production. In order to produce a uniform product, which consistently meets customer’s demands at the lowest cost, a control system must be in place to minimize variance throughout the entire processing cycle.

Minimum variance control strategies, require partnerships to be created between management, engineering, instrumentation, maintenance, operations, and vendors. This paper covers control system analysis test procedures, that have been integrated into mill wide optimization programs. The results of which improve overall product quality and reduce operating costs by reducing process variation.