Improvement of linear distillation column control performance using fuzzy self-tuning PI controller

Abstract

PI and PID controllers are usually found to provide poor performance for high-order, nonlinear processes, and multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) systems with strong loop interactions. One of the most common multivariable system found is the distillation column. In this study, a new structure of fuzzy self-tuning PI (fuzzy-PI) controller for distillation column is proposed. The values of Kp and Ki are initially tuned with Ziegler-Nichols closed loop method and are always updated based on the system's condition. With the self-tuning structure, the fuzzy-PI controller improves the conventional PI controller in terms of the linear distillation column control performance. The controllers' performance are tested by XD and XB set point change and XF disturbance change.