Methods for structural control optimisation in pulping

Purpose and goal

A pulp- and paper industry handles a huge number of process variables which are dynamically interconnected in a complex structure. Together with the control system this generates a process system where even a small part affects the whole in a way that might be hard to predict. Thus, there is a large potential for efficiency enhancements in treating the control system structure from a holistic perspective instead of optimizing isolated parts of the process. The objective is to further and anew develop methods for structural analysis and optimization so that these methods become reliable and sufficiently robust to be automated and packaged into tools.

Expected results and effects

It is expected that the tools will provide new knowledge for a more efficient use of the control system in a complex process system. The project entails a competitive edge for ICT companies as they can provide structural analysis as a service. Pulp and paper industries benefit from the service as new information on the control systems efficiency enhancements becomes available.

Planned approach and implementation

Using real time process data combined with process knowledge from the stock preparation, conclusions on how methods for structural analysis and optimization need to be design, so that these tools become available to ICT companies and plant owners. This is achieved through close cooperation with the industry partners and their stock preparation in operation.