Simulation and Experiment in an Introductory Process Control Laboratory Experience
Abstract
This article describes an introductory process control laboratory and dynamic simulation experience provided in the second-semester junior laboratory course for chemical engineering students at Villanova University for the past four years. This experience consists of a comparison between experimental data and simulation results for the dynamic response of the liquid level in a tank under open-loop and closed-loop operation. It is intended to reinforce the basic concepts of dynamic process modeling, simulation, and feedback control that are introduced in the process simulation and control course. Because this course is taught concurrently with the second-semester junior laboratory, we are able to integrate this laboratory experience into the curriculum shortly after the time that these concepts are presented in the classroom.