Modelling And Study Of Control Structures Of Reactive Distillation For The Production Of Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE)
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Date
2021-06-01
Authors
Jeffrey Lee, Jie Yi
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Universiti Sains Malaysia
Abstract
This project studies the reactive distillation of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE). A
simulation model for this process was selected based on a selected literature source, with
additional information utilised from other literature sources. This model was and successfully
modelled in the ASPEN PLUS software. After successful running of the simulation, the model
in this project was verified with the original source it was based on. After verifying that the
model created leads to a result similar to the original reference, the project was moved to the
dynamics portion. Controllers were installed using ASPEN Dynamics and their responses to
disturbances and set-point changes were evaluated. The controllers FLOWMET, TEMPC and
LEVELTOPS were evaluated with step-point changes. These controllers displayed relatively
good responses and were able to guide the varying process variables back to the intended set-point. Hence, it is concluded that is possible to utilise linear methods to control the dynamics
of a reactive distillation column. Even so, the disturbances implemented were relatively small-scale and not too large. Therefore, further tuning and changes may have to be made to further
improve the tuning of these controllers if this control system is to be implemented on a larger
scale.