Marlin Ch05
Marlin Ch05
Marlin Ch05
Behavior of
Typical Process
Systems
5.1 n INTRODUCTION
Examples in the previous two chapters have demonstrated that physical systems,
which involve very different physical principles, can have similar dynamic behav
ior. The concept that a single model type can apply to a wide range of entities,
process plants, biological units, economic communities, and so forth provides the
basis for "systems" analysis. Thus, it is possible to acquire understanding of a
large number of systems from a thorough study of a much smaller number of basic
models. In this chapter we study some fundamental model structures that occur
frequently in process plants, along with their effects on dynamic behavior. This
experience will enable us to recognize the effects of process designs on dynamic
behavior.
First, the behavior of some simple, basic systems, such as first- and second-
order and dead-time systems, is summarized using the results from previous chap
ters, with some extensions. Second, the behavior of these simple systems in series
structures is determined. Third, the behavior of parallel structures of simple sys
tems is introduced. Fourth, the effects of recycle structures on dynamic responses
are demonstrated. The chapter concludes with an investigation of more complex
physical systems of special importance in the process industries: staged systems
and multiple input-multiple output systems.
In these sections, the manner in which the behavior of simple systems is al
tered by common process structures is derived for simple, idealized models but is
demonstrated for important process examples involving levels, heat exchangers,
136 chemical reactors, and distillation towers. This coverage demonstrates that the
engineer must master both the physical principles of specific processes and
CHAPTER 5 systems analysis techniques to determine the dynamics of complex processes
Dynamic Behavior of quantitatively.
Typical Process
Systems
5.2 m BASIC SYSTEM ELEMENTS
The coverage of process dynamics begins with the simplest elements, which are
often combined to model more complex systems. Since examples of most of these
elements were included in previous chapters, the coverage here is concise. The ba
sic model structure for each element is first defined, and several physical examples
are given, with the system input designated by X and the output by Y. The chem
ical process principles should be apparent to the reader, while the electrical and
mechanical models are based on KirchhofPs and Newton's laws, and the reader
is referred to Ogata (1992) and Weber (1973) for derivations. The graphical and
analytical results of common inputs for several basic systems are summarized in
Figure 5.1; the presentation of results in such a figure seems to have originated
with Buckley (1964). Only the amplitude ratio is presented here, because more
extensive frequency response analysis is presented in Chapter 10, where the im
portance of the phase behavior on stability is demonstrated and applied in control
system analysis.
Underdamped
Mixing Mixing reactor Plug flow
1
Process do oor-J do db -Q >
- fl - constant
Variables CA0 CA2 CA0 Cjz = 0 CiU-t Fir
In / Out
Time
T t X
Impulse
Time
Sine
Log (frequency)
FIGURE 5.1
K,
rtm
dt
+ m-KW G(,)=yW (5.1)
Xis) xs + 1
The step response is monotonic, with its maximum slope at the time of the
step, and the time to reach 63.2 percent of its final change is one time constant.
The final steady-state change is equal to KpiAX).
An impulse input occurs over a negligible time and transfers a finite amount
into the system. For example, rapidly introducing a small amount of tracer into
a stirred tank emulates a perfect impulse. The impulse response shows an im
mediate increase at the time of the impulse, which for the idealized stirred-tank
example would mean that the concentration would change instantly by (mass of
tracer)/(volume). After the impulse (C), the system follows an exponential path in
Component GAo cA F V
material F+Vk F+Vk
Energy 1.0
Overall 1
material O.SkLr0-5 O.SkLr05
Current 1.0 RC
E0 ci E
zo
k1
3: z Force zo 1.0 //*'
FIGURE 5.2
First-order processes (E = voltage, z = position, k' = spring constant, and
/ = friction coefficient).
138 return to its final condition.
Second-Order System
The second-order system occurs when two first-order or one second-order ordinary
differential equation is required to model the dynamic behavior. Some examples
are given in Figure 5.3. The transfer function for the second-order system with a
gain in the numerator (and no zeros) can be written as
dt2 dt (5.5)
G = J&i = j*l+2$TS+\
-fV^T[
with <X\,2
Overall 2t
L R
o-fUPVA-
Current 1.0 LC RC
'0 c1 E
A f *'
Force Mk' m/k' f/k'
m\ z
f
FIGURE 5.3
Second-order processes (E = voltage, z = position, k' = spring constant, / = friction
coefficient, h = force, m = mass, rA = V/(F + Vk), and tb = V/F).
The parameter f is termed the^damping coefficient, and 0^,2 are the two roots of 139
the characteristic polynomial, which determine the exponents of the time-domain m^ams^^mssimmum
output function. When the damping coefficient is less than 1.0, the system is Basic System Elements
termed underdamped, the roots of the characteristic polynomial are complex, and
the system will have periodic behavior for a nonperiodic input. For example, the
nonisothermal reactor system in Section 3.6, which exhibits oscillations for a
step input, has a damping coefficient of 0.15. When the damping coefficient is
greater than 1.0, the system is termed overdamped, the roots of the characteristic
polynomial are real, and the system will have nonperiodic responses to nonperiodic
inputs. Finally, the series reactor system in Example 3.3 has a damping coefficient
of 1.0, which indicates real, repeated roots; this type of system is termed critically
damped.
Two entries are given in Figure 5.1 for second-order systems; one is for an
overdamped system, and the other is for an underdamped system. The step response
for the overdamped system initially at steady state is monotonic with an initial slope
of zero and an inflection point. Note that the underdamped system experiences
periodic behavior even for this simple input.
Y = KpAX 1 + - (5.6)
\ x2-x\ x2 - Xi )
ax gl/t . /yi-s2 A
Y = KDAX - Kv t _e-*tlx sin ( v t + 4> J
(5.8)
. IJ\-k2\
<p = tan
Y = C[- ) (5.9)
\T1-T2 x\-x2J
Y = ^le-t/T (5.10)
140 UNDERDAMPED IMPULSE RESPONSE ($ < 1).
Dead Time
The dead time or transportation delay was introduced in Example 4.3 for plug flow
of liquids and can also occur for transportation of solids along a conveyor belt. It
was shown to have the following model:
Y(s) = e - 6 s
Y(t) = X(t - 0) G(s) = (5.13)
X(s)
The step response, impulse response, and amplitude ratio can all be easily deter
mined, because the output is the input translated in time by 0. For example, this
leads to the conclusion that the amplitude ratio is equal to 1.0 for all frequencies,
which can be demonstrated mathematically by
(5.14)
The dead time can be approximated by a transfer function that replaces the
exponential in the Laplace variable (e~9s) with a ratio of polynomials in s. This
approach is referred to as a Pade approximation, which is presented in Appendix
D. In this book, we will not use dead time approximations; i.e., we will model the
dead time as an exact delay as given in equations (5.13).
The importance of dead time to feedback control can be understood by con
sidering an example such as steering an automobile. With dead time, the automo
bile would not respond immediately after the change in steering wheel position.
Clearly, such an automobile would be difficult to drive and would require a skilled
and patient driver who could wait for the effect of a steering wheel change to occur.
Integrator
The integrator is a special type of first-order system; a process example of an
integrator is a level system, which is modelled based on an overall material balance
to give 141
In many cases the inlet and outlet flows do not depend on the level (unlike the tank
draining Example 3.6). When no causal relationship exists from the level to the
flow, the model has the following general form:
dY'
r_ = x<#/u") xh = holdup time (5.16)
G(s) = _= _ 1 (5.17)
X(s) xHs
The important difference between the integrator and the first-order system in
equation (5.1) is the lack of dependence of the derivative on the output variable
(Y'y, that is, dY'/dt is independent of Y'. This results in a pole at s = 0 in the
transfer function. The analytical expression for the output of the integrator is
Self-Regulation
The unique behavior of the integrator demonstrates that not all processes tend to
a steady state after input changes cease and all inputs are constant. To clarify the
distinction, the term self-regulation is introduced here.
For a process that is self-regulatory, the output variables tend to a steady state after
the input variables have reached constant values.
Many processes encountered to this point have been self-regulatory, including the
chemical reactors, heat exchanger, and mixing tanks. Self-regulatory processes are
142 generally easier to operate because they tend to a steady state. Naturally, the final
steady state might be acceptable or not depending on the magnitude and direction
CHAPTERS of the input changes, so that process control is often applied to self-regulatory
Dynamic Behavior of processes.
Typical Process The self-regulation in a process can be identified by analyzing the dynamic
Systems
model to determine if the value of the output variable influences its derivative.
For example, the heat exchanger in Example 3.7 has inherent negative feedback,
because an increase in the output (outlet temperature) causes a decrease in a model
input term -(F/V + UA/VpCp)T, which stabilizes the system by decreasing
the derivative:
dT (F UA \ (F UA \
(5.21)
vPc - VpCp,
External inputs Inherent negative
feedback
Some processes have inherent positive and negative feedback; for example,
the nonisothermal chemical reactor with exothermic chemical reaction is
dT_
CA0 <
w dt \V VpCp
VpCp cm) \V VpCpJ
External inputs
VpCp
Inherent negative
do feedback
+ j-AHnn)kQe-EfRTCk
pCP
Inherent positive
r' c.m r
Icout feedback
The reactor has a negative feedback term in its energy balance, the same as for the
heat exchanger. However, the exothermic chemical reaction contributes positive
feedback, because the input term i-AHrxnkoe~E/RTCA/pCp) increases when the
output temperature increases. For the parameter values in Table C.l, case I, the
inherent negative feedback in the process dominates, and the process achieves
a steady state after a step input. The positive feedback is substantial, however,
which leads to the periodic behavior and complex poles. Additional comments on
the behavior and stability of processes are given in Appendix C.
In contrast, non-self-regulatory processes do not tend to steady-state operation
after all inputs have reached constant values. Thus, even a small (and constant)
input change from an initial steady state can lead to large disturbances after a long
time. A non-self-regulatory process can be identified from its dynamic model; the
value of the output variable does not influence its derivative, as shown in equation
(5.15), so that the derivative can have a constant (nonzero) value over a long
time. Without intervention, a non-self-regulatory process can experience very large
deviations from desired values; therefore, all non-self-regulatory processes require
process control. The dynamics of typical non-self-regulatory processes are covered
in Chapter 18, along control technology tailored to their special requirements.
In summary, many different systems obeying the models of these basic el
ements behave in a similar manner. After the parameters have been determined,
their behavior for specified inputs is well understood. Thus, the experience learned
from a few examples can be extended, with care, to many other systems.
5.3 Q SERIES STRUCTURES OF SIMPLE SYSTEMS 143
A structure involving a series of systems occurs often in process control. As dis
Series Structures of
cussed in Chapter 2, this structure can occur because of a processing sequencefor Simple Systems
example, feed heat exchange, chemical reactor, product cooling, and product sep
aration. Also, a control loop involves a final element (valve), process, and sensor
in a series, as will be more fully discussed in Part III. Therefore, the understanding
of how series structures behave is essential in the design of chemical plants and
process control systems.
Noninteracting Series
There are two major categories of series systems, and the noninteracting system
is covered first. It is worthwhile considering the mixing system, which conforms
to the block diagram at the bottom of Figure 5Aa, in which each intermediate
variable has physical meaning.
dC
Va2 = FC'-FC'
'AO Al (5.23)
dt
dCA
' A2 = FC'Al - FC'A2
V (5.24)
dt
Note that the model equations have the general form
dY!
for / = 1,..., n with Yq = X' (5.25)
xt^-KtYl.y-Y!
Any system modelled with equations of this structure constitutes a noninteracting
series system. Important features of the system follow from this model.
1. Only y_i and Yn (not Yn+\) appear in the equation for dYn/dt.
2. Following from (I), the downstream properties do not affect upstream prop
erties; in the example, the concentration in tank 2 does not affect the concen
tration in tank 1 but does affect tank 3.
ib)
X{s) W Y2{s)
^
Gx{s) G2{s) G3(*)
ia)
FIGURE 5.4
Series of processes: (a) noninteracting; ib) interacting.
144 3. The model for the general noninteracting series of first-order systems can
be developed by taking the Laplace transform of each equation (5.25) and
CHAPTER 5 combining them into one input-output expression. For a series of systems
Dynamic Behavior of shown in Figure 5.4a, each represented by atransfer function G, is), the overall
Typical Process transfer function
Systems
n-\
Yn(s) = Gn(s)Gn.l(s). Gxis) = ]*] Gn-iW (5-26)
X(s) i=0
Y\K-i
YJS) i=0
n-1
with Kn-i and xn--, for the individual systems
Xis)
Y[(Tn-iS + 1)
i=0
(5.27)
The gains and time constants appearing in equation (5.27) are the same as the
values for the individual systems, as in equation (5.25). Thus, the model of
interacting systems can be determined directly from the individual models.
4. If each system is stable (i.e., r,- > 0 for all i), the series system is stable. This
follows from the important observation that the poles (roots of the character
istic polynomial) of the series system are the poles of the individual systems.
\Yn(jCO)\ 1
AR = = \G(jco)\ = [Y[Ki (5.28)
\X(jco)\ i=\ .VT+ (02X2 ) "
The amplitude ratio is always less than or equal to the overall gain, and it decreases
rapidly as the frequency becomes large. Amplitude ratios for several series of
145
Series Structures of
Simple Systems
1.5 2 2.5
Scaled time, tlnx
FIGURE 5.5
Responses of n identical noninteracting first-order systems with K = 1
in series to a unit step at t = 0.
identical first-order systems are shown in Figure 5.6; again, the frequency is scaled
to the order of the system to provide time-scaling.
Interacting Series
The second major category of series systems is interacting systems. Again, it is
worthwhile considering a physical example, this being the level-flow process in
Figure 5Ab. Assuming that the flow through each pipe is a function of the pressure
difference, the model can be derived based on overall material balance for each
vessel to give
dLi
AiL = Fi_l Ft
dt
= Kj-\(L(-i Li) - Ki(L, Li+\) (5.29)
because Fi = K[(Pi P,+i) for the linearized system, and the pressures are
proportional to the liquid levels. These model equations have the following general
form for a series of two interacting first-order systems:
dY'
(5.30)
Hl-j = X'-KliY{-Yl)
dY'
(5.31)
Many important physical systems, including that in Figure 5.4fc, have struc
tures described by equations (5.30) and (5.31); thus, these equations are considered
representative of interacting systems for subsequent analysis. Some important fea
tures of these systems follow from their model structure:
146 10 E-T 1 I I llllllI IT rrrmii i limnii 11iii=j
CHAPTER 5 - n= 1,2,5,10,20,50
Dynamic Behavior of
Typical Process
Systems
10-' =
o
a
3
Q.
E
<
10-2
1. The variables Yn-\, Yn, and Yn+i appear in the equation for dYn/dt.
2. Following from (1), the downstream properties affect upstream properties; for
example, the exhaust pressure (Pj) influences both levels in Figure 5.4b.
3. The model for the general interacting series system of first-order systems can
be developed by taking the Laplace transform of equations (5.30) and (5.31)
and combining them into one input-output expression, which results in poles
of the interacting system that are different from the poles of the individual
systems.
The procedure for deriving the overall transfer function is shown in some
detail, because the result is somewhat more complex than for a noninteracting
system and because the procedure can be applied to systems of differing structures.
First, the Laplace transform of equation (5.30) can be rearranged to give (with the
primes deleted)
1 JJ
Again, the parameter xy2 is the time constant for the second system when con
sidered individually. The behavior of the combined system can be determined by
substituting equation (5.32) into (5.33) to give, after some rearrangement, 147
(xYls + \)
Y2(s) = Y3(s) Series Structures of
XY\XY2S2 + f XY\ + XY2 + xY\ - j s + l Simple Systems
(5.34)
l/K2
+ X(s)
xy\xY2s2 + [ xY\ + xY2 + xY\ - ) s + 1
( K2)
Several important conclusions on the effect of the series structure on the
dynamic behavior can be determined from an analysis of the denominator of the
transfer function. The time constants of the interacting system (x\ and x2), which
are the inverses of the poles, can be determined by solving the quadratic equation
for the roots of the characteristic polynomial to give
* l \ 2
xy\ + Xyi + Xy\ xy\ + Xyi + xy\ 1 - 4rn xY2
(
1,2
2xy\Xy2
(5.35)
Four characteristics of the dynamics of this type of series system are now estab
lished. First, the possibility of complex poles is determined to establish whether
periodic behavior is possible. The expression within the square root in equation
(5.35) can be rearranged to give
KA2 A
xyi + xyi + xYi I 4xy\Xy2
(
(5.36)
(Xy\ Xy2) + Xy 2xy\ +2xy2 + xy\ >0
Since both terms in the right-hand expression are greater than zero, the entire
expression is greater than zero, and complex poles are not possible for this system.
Therefore, periodic behavior cannot occur for nonperiodic inputs, such as a step.
Second, the stability of the process can be determined from equation (5.35).
Note that the numerator has the form a (a2 b)05, with a and b both positive.
Therefore, the poles for both signs of the root are negative, and the system is stable.
Third, the "speed" of response of the interacting series system can be compared
with the individual system responses. Since the poles are real, the characteristic
polynomial in equation (5.34) can be written in an equivalent form as
(xis + l)(x2s + 1) = X\X2S2 + (X[ + x2)s + 1 (5.37)
Equating the coefficients of like powers of s in equations (5.34) and (5.37) gives
The previous results for interacting systems are applicable to (only) those systems
that conform to the model; in addition to having variables F_i, Y, and Y+\ appear
in the equation for dYn/dt, the coefficients of each linearized term must conform to
the structure and range of values in equations (5.30) and (5.31).
Many systems have the same model structures but different ranges for the
values of the parameters. If the type of system is not obvious from the structure of
the equations and the values of the model parameters, the model can be analyzed
using the procedure just applied to the equations (5.30) and (5.31) to determine
important characteristics of its dynamic behavior.
Y(s)
n-\ n*,)exp(-J>s
w=l
= Y\Gn-iis) = 1=1
with d (s) =
Xis) 1=0 XjS + 1
f\(XiS + 1)
1=1
(5.40)
This overall transfer function provides the basis for the following equations, which
give values for key parameters of a noninteracting series of first-order-with-dead-
time systems.
n n
Exact relationships: K - (5.41a)
n
System 1 2 3 4
Dead time, 0 0.40 0.90 1.2 1.70
Time constant, r 1.5 3.3 5.2 0.95
Gain, K 1.0 0.25 3.0 1.33
msmmm^mmmi^mi0smmm^immm^^Mmm!mm\
The results in this section on noninteracting systems indicate that the output re
sponse will be an overdamped sigmoid. Equations (5.41) can be used to estimate
key values of the response. Note that the input occurred at time = 2, so that the
points indicated on Figure 5.7 are based on the following results as measured
from time = 2.
a:, = 1.0 0 = 4.2 (after step) J^(0 + r) = 15.15 .-. t63% & 15.15 (after step)
The overall response is compared with the approximation in Figure 5.7, which
demonstrates the usefulness of the approximation for t&%, because it gives an
approximate "time scale" for the response. However, many sigmoidal curves could
be drawn through the two points in the figure. The entire curve can be determined
through analytical or numerical solution of the defining equations.
O
x X\ 02 r2 *3 T3 #4 *4
Case 1 0 2 2 0 0 2
Case 2 0 2 2 2 1 0
150
CHAPTER 5
Dynamic Behavior of 0.8
Typical Process
Systems
8 0.6
3
&
3
O
0.4 Approximate
dead time
0.2
0
L 5
Step
35 40
FIGURE 5.7
The solution can be developed in several ways. The most general is to derive the
overall input-output transfer functions for these systems.
Y4(s) = Gds)Y3is) = = G4(s)G3(s)G2(s)Gi(.s)X(s)
y4(j) i . Q g - f fl i + f t + f t + f t ) *
~X(S) ~ iTiS + \)iT2S + 1)(T35 + 1)(T4* + 1)
l.Qg-4'
~ (2j + \)i2s + 1)
Since the overall transfer functions are the same for the two systems, their dynamic
input-output behaviors are identical. This is verified by the transient responses of
the two cases for a step input at time = 2 in Figure 5.8, with each variable Ytit) on
a separate scale.
The responses in Figure 5.8 show that two systems can have the same input-output
behavior with different values for intermediate variables.
In conclusion, the analysis in this section has demonstrated that both noninter
acting and interacting series of n first-order systems can be modelled by a transfer
function with a characteristic polynomial of order n. Much about the dynamic re
sponses of the series systems can be determined from the models of the individual
systems. The results are summarized in Table 5.1.
The series systems in this section provided additional reinforcement for the im
portance of transfer function poles. The strongest general conclusions were based
151
Series Structures of
Simple Systems
8 10 12 20
Time
FIGURE 5.8
Dynamic responses for series system in Example 5.2 to a unit step at time = 2.
TABLE 5.1
Properties of series systems with first-order elements
(responses between input, X, and output, Y)
Individual first-order Noninteracting Interacting series system,
systems series systems equations (5.30) and (5.31)
n first-order systems nth-order system nth-order system
Each is stable Stable, not periodic Stable, not periodic
Time constants, t/ Time constants are zit Time constants are not t/'s. They
i = 1,..., n must be determined by solving the
characteristic polynomial.
km to * E x> t&>% > ]CT
Step response Overdamped, sigmoidal Overdamped, sigmoidal
Frequency response AR < Kp for all co AR < Kp for all co
on the manner in which the poles of the overall system were or were not affected by
the series structure. These conclusions concerned stability and the related property
of periodic behavior. Since these generalizations dealt with properties completely
determined by the poles, they are independent of the numerators in the transfer
functions. In fact, the generalizations on stability and periodicity can be extended
to any series transfer functions with denominators expressed as a polynomial in s.
152 However, the values of the poles do not provide general conclusions for the
time-domain responses to step and sine inputs. Since both the numerator and
CHAPTERS denominator of the transfer function influence the dynamic behavior, the more
Dynamic Behavior of specific results on dynamic responses are valid only for systems consistent with
Typical Process the assumptions in the derivationsthat is, with a constant for the numerator
Systems
of each series transfer function element. In particular, Figures 5.4 and 5.5 and all
conclusions on the step response and amplitude ratio are specific to systems whose
component elements have constant numerators. Finally, such strong conclusions
for an overall system, based on the individual elements, are not always possible,
as demonstrated by the structures considered in the remainder of this chapter.
For negative values of 13 the step response changes initially in the direction opposite
from the final steady state! This behavior is termed an inverse response and results
from the parallel path.
1.5 1 1 1 1 1 1 l 1 1
4
3
1 -- / /
2
1
0.5 -/
0
3
o -1
-2
-0.5
1 1
5 10
Time
FIGURE 5.11
The emphasis on complex dynamic responses in this section does not indicate that
all systems with numerator zeros give unfavorable dynamics such as large overshoot
or inverse response.
The engineer can analyze the physical process for possible parallel paths
with different dynamics to identify potentially complex dynamics and then use
quantitative methods to determine whether the behavior may cause difficulty for
control. Each input must be considered separately, because the characteristics of
the output dynamic response differ for different inputs.
GRis) = Gds)=0A0
10*+ 1
The gains are dimensionless (C/C), and time is in minutes. The recycle heat
exchanger model, Gmis), represents the effect of the recycle stream temperature
on the reactor inlet temperature. If no recycle existed, i.e., if the effluent did not
exchange heat with the reactor feed, T4is) would have no effect on T3is), so that
GH2is) would not exist, which is represented by GH2is) = 0. These transfer function
models can be substituted into equation (5.50) to determine the overall effect of
a change in the process inlet temperature, Tois), on the reactor temperature with
and without recycle.
With recycle:
(0.40) 12
T4js) \\0s + \)
100* + 1 (5.51)
Tois) 1- (0.30)
VlOs + lJ
Without recycle (G//2(.v) = 0):
T4js) = GH]is)GRis) = 1.2
(5.52)
Tois) 10*+ 1
Results analysis. The foregoing expressions and the dynamic responses for
a step input of 2C in T0 in Figure 5.14 show the dramatic effect of recycle on
the steady-state gain and time constant; both increase by a factor of 10 due to
recycle. This change can be understood by analyzing the interaction between the
exchanger and reactor in the recycle system during a transient; an increase in T0
causes an increase in T3 and then T4, which causes an increase in T2, which causes
an increase in T4, and so on; in short, the output change is reinforced through the
recycle (feedback) exchanger. The system is still stable and self-regulatory, be
cause of the dominant inherent negative feedback for the parameter values in this
example, but the recycle has created an inherent positive feedback in the process,
157
Staged Processes
FIGURE 5.14
Dynamic responses for a 2C step in T0 at time = 0 with and without recycle.
(Note different scales.) Results from Example 53.
which has significantly affected the dynamic response. The potentially unfavorable
dynamic effects of recycle can be reduced through automatic control strategies,
which retain most of the process performance benefits, as demonstrated for this
chemical reactor design in Figure 24.11.
The simple example in this section demonstrates the potential effects of recycle
on dynamic behavior:
1. Recycle can alter the stability and possibility for periodic behavior of the
overall system, because it affects the poles of the overall system.
2. The time constants and steady-state gain of the overall system with recycle
can be changed substantially from their values without recycle.
1. The liquid level on every tray remains above the weir height.
2. Equal molal overflow applies.
3. Relative volatility a and heat of vaporization A. are constant.
4. Holdup in vapor phase is negligible.
VMq
W
rcbr=TT
FMB Bottoms
XB
FIGURE 5.15
Distillation tower.
The following nomenclature is used:
159
MM = molar holdup of liquid on tray
FM = molar flow rate of liquid Staged Processes
X = mole fraction of light component in liquid
A. = heat of vaporization
VM = molar flow rate of vapor
Y = mole fraction of light component in vapor
The schematic of a general tray in Figure 5.16 shows that every tray has the
potential for feed and product flows and heat transfer. With the assumptions and Liquid Vapor
the general tray structure, the basic overall and component balances for each stage FM/+1 VM,
or tray (i = 1 n) can be formulated as i
Overall material (molar) balance on liquid phase: FM, VM
dMM Qi 1'
TABLE 5.4
Base case design parameters for example
binary distillation
EXAMPLE 5.4.
Determine the dynamic behavior of a binary distillation tower with the parameters
in Table 5.4. The model equations can be integrated numerically to determine the
response of the system from specified initial conditions for any values or func
tions of the external variables. The dynamic responses are obtained by estab
lishing a steady-state operating condition and introducing a single step change
to one of the external variables; each step is 1 percent of the base case input
value. (This is exactly how the experiment would be performed on the physical
tower, as explained in Chapter 6.) The results are shown in Figure 5.17a and
b. The composition responses are smooth monotonic sigmoidal curves, in spite
of the complexity of the process. Note that changing a single input affects both
162 17.06 13.7
CHAPTER 5
Dynamic Behavior of
Typical Process 8.53
xs
Systems co
20 40 20 40
Time (min) Time (min)
0.98 0.03
20 40 20 40
Time (min) Time (min)
(a)
8.65 o 27.06
1o 13.53
>
Si
u
a
>
20 40 20 40
Time (min) Time (min)
0.985 0.035
0.03 -
o o
E E 0.025 -
0.98 0.02
20 40 20 40
Time (min) Time (min)
ib)
FIGURE 5.17
Response of distillate and bottoms products in Example 5.6: (a) to reboiler step
change; ib) to reflux step change. (These dynamic composition responses are
obtained without sensor delays when the pressure and the distillate and bottoms
accumulator levels are maintained constant.)
product compositionsan important factor in subsequent control design as dis 163
cussed in Chapters 20 and 21.
S33IPi!i^ Multiple
Input-Multiple
Output Systems
This summary presents a small sample of the results available on distillation
dynamics. They have been presented as general guidelines for the behavior of
two-product distillation with simple thermodynamics (e.g., no azeotropes) and no
chemical reaction. The reader is encouraged to refer to the citations and Additional
Resources for further details. This distillation example will be considered in later
chapters, where the control of the product compositions, through adjustments to
such variables as the reboiler duty and reflux flow, will be investigated.
Many, but not all, of the systems modelled in Chapters 3,4, and 5 have involved a
single input and output. If intermediate variables existed, they could be eliminated
using transfer functions and block diagram algebra to develop a single input-single
output (SISO) equation. This approach helped to simplify our task of learning how
to model dynamic responses and is applicable to some realistic processes. However,
the majority of processes have several inputs, and process operation is concerned
with more than one output simultaneously. For example, the nonisothermal chem
ical reactor in Section 3.6 has coolant flow and inlet concentration as inputs and
reactor concentration and temperature as outputs. Also, the distillation tower in the
previous section has distillate product flow, reboiler flow, and all feed properties
and flow rate as inputs and concentration of both product streams as outputs.
The methods described in the previous two chapters for developing fundamen
tal modelslinearization, transfer functions, block diagramsare all applicable
to these multiple input-multiple output (MIMO) systems. Again, we see that many
intermediate variables can exist in a process; in the distillation tower, the tray com
positions and holdups are intermediate variables. These intermediate variables are
included in the fundamental model and eliminated algebraically from the linearized
input-output relationship.
V d_C*
^ = FiCM-CA)-VkC2A (5.68)
dt
To clarify the linearity of the model, all constants are substituted in equation (5.68)
164 to give
dCi
(5.70)
with
TCAO = ^CAO =
Fs+2VkCAs Fs + 2VkCAs
V (CaOs ~ CAs
ZF = KF =
Fs + 2VkCAs "' Fs+2VkCAs
These two models can be solved for step changes to give
[Ca(01cao = ACaoKcao(1 - <T'l/rcA0) with tx = t - 2 > 0 (5.71)
The results from the linearized analysis in equations (5.71) to (5.73) are given
in Figure 5.18. Clearly, the output concentration is the sum of two first-order step
responses beginning at different times. This modelling approach can be extended
to any number of input variables affecting an output.
EXAMPLE 5.6.
Sketch a block diagram showing the relationship between the input variables,
reflux flow and reboiled vapor, and the output variable, light component mole
fraction in the distillate and bottoms products.
The data in Figure 5.16 show that both input variables affect both output vari
ables. Thus, each input has two transfer functions, one for each of the output
variables. The sketch for this process is shown in Figure 5.19. A natural ques
tion is "How are the transfer functions determined?" In previous examples, the
0.25
165
Conclusions
10 15 20 25
Time (min) FMRis)- cxdr(*) <5>-**Xd(*)
FIGURE 5.18
fundamental model has been linearized and all intermediate variables eliminated
VM0is) GXBVW >-* X(5)
by algebraic manipulations. However, the fundamental model for the distillation
process is large, involving about 150 equations, so that the analytical procedure FIGURE 5.19
would be excessively time-consuming. Fortunately, the transfer functions can be
determined experimentally from data very similar to Figure 5.16, and this empirical Block diagram for the linearized models
for a two-product distillation process.
modelling procedure is explained in the next chapter.
5.8 CONCLUSIONS
The results of this chapter clearly demonstrate that process structures have strong
effects on dynamic behavior and that these effects can be predicted using the
methods presented in the previous chapters. Many of the strongest results relate
to the "long-time" behavior of the systems, because they are determined by the
poles of the transfer function and are independent of the numerator zeros. These
properties involve stability and the related tendency for over- or underdamped
behavior. However, the numerators also play an important role in the dynamic
response, as shown by the examples in the section on parallel structures.
It is worth noting that each of these process structures is covered individually
to clarify the analysis of their effects on dynamic behavior. Naturally, a process
may contain several of these structures, all of which will influence its behavior.
The study of complex processes is delayed until Parts V and VI, which address
the control of multiple input-multiple output systems.
Finally, in the last three chapters, dynamic responses of many processes to
a step input have been shown to have a sigmoidal shape. This means that these
processes could be approximated by adjusting parameters in a model of simple
166 structure. While this observation is not especially helpful for analytical modelling,
it is very important for empirical modelling, which develops models based on
CHAPTERS experimental data. This is the topic of the next chapter.
Dynamic Behavior of
Typical Process
Systems REFERENCES
Buckley, P., Techniques in Process Control, Wiley, New York, 1964.
Foust, A. et al., Principles of Unit Operations, Wiley, New York, 1980.
Narraway, L., J. Perkins, and G. Barton, "Interaction between Process Design
and Process Control," J. Proc. Cont., 1, 5, 243-250 (1991).
Nisenfeld, E., Industrial Evaporators, Principles of Operation and Control,
Instrument Society of America, Research Triangle Park, NC, 1985.
Ogata, K., System Dynamics (2nd ed.), Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, NJ,
1992.
Treybal, R., Mass Transfer Operations, McGraw-Hill, New York, 1955.
Smith, J., and H. Van Ness, Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics (4th ed.),
McGraw-Hill, New York, 1987.
Weber, T, An Introduction to Process Dynamics and Control, Wiley, New
York, 1973.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Recycle systems occur frequently and substantially affect process dynamics. Some
studies on these effects are noted here.
Inverse response can be a vexing problem for control. The engineer should
understand the process causes of inverse response systems and modify the design
to mitigate the effect.
Iionya, K., and R. Altpeter, "Inverse Response in Process Control," IEC, 54,
7, 39 (1962).
The guidance before the questions in Chapters 3 and 4 is appropriate here as well.
The key new issue introduced in this chapter and demonstrated in these questions is
the effect of structure on the behavior of relatively simple individual elements.
QUESTIONS
5.1. A linearized model for a stirred-tank heat exchanger is derived in Example
3.7 for a change in the coolant flow rate. Extend these results by deriv
ing the model for simultaneous changes in the coolant flow rate and inlet
temperature. Also, determine an analytical expression for the outlet tem
perature T'it), for simultaneous step changes in the coolant flow and inlet 7b
temperature. (You may use all results from Example 3.7 without deriving.)
5.2. The jacketed heat exchanger in Figure Q5.2 is to be modelled. The input
'cO
variable is Tq, and the output variable is T. The inlet coolant temperature
is constant. The following assumptions may be made: do
(1) Both vessels are well mixed.
(2) Physical properties are constant.
(3) Flows and volumes are constant.
168 (4) Q = UAiT - Tc)
(5) The dynamic balances on both volumes must be solved simulta
CHAPTER 5 neously.
Dynamic Behavior of id) Write the basic balances for both volumes in deviation variables.
Typical Process
Systems ib) Take the Laplace transforms.
(c) Combine into the transfer function T'is)/ Tq(s).
id) Analyze this result to determine whether the dynamic behavior is (i)
stable and (ii) periodic. Remember that these properties are defined by
the denominator of the transfer function.
ie) The transfer function ignores initial conditions of the system. Briefly
explain why the transfer function is usefulin other words, what prop
erties can be determined easily using the transfer function?
i
5.3. The continuous-time systems of two stages shown in Figure Q5.3a and b
L *3 v2 are to be analyzed. Assumptions are the following:
'
FIGURE Q5.4
Series stirred-tank reactors.
5.5. The recycle mixing system in Figure Q5.5 is to be considered. The feed
flow is 1 unit, and the recycle flow is 9 units. The pipe has a dead time
of 10 seconds, and the recycle has negligible dynamics. The system is
F=l
a- F=
F=9
initially at steady state with pure solvent entering as feed. At time = 0, the
concentration of the feed increases to 10%A. Plot the concentration at the FIGURE Q5.5
exit of the pipe from t = 0 to the new steady state.
5.6. The chemical reactor without control of temperature or concentration in -A0
CaseLA^B CaselLA^B
Only component A is in the feed stream, and its concentration, Cao, can
change as the input to the system. Answer the following questions for both
Cases I and II.
(a) Derive the model describing the concentration of component B in the
reactor.
(b) Which of the general system structures covered in this chapter de
scribes this system?
(c) Determine whether the system can experience underdamped, over-
damped, and unstable behavior for physically possible parameter
values.
(d) Describe the response of this system to feed concentration step changes
in Cao and determine which system would have a faster response.
(e) Repeat all parts of this question, with the composition of A in the
reactor being the output variable.
5.8. Figure 5.1 can be expanded to include more process systems and more
inputs.
(a) Include the following systems, with a sketch of a physical process: (1)
\/(xs + l)3 and (2) e~es/(xs + 1).
(b) Include the following inputs for all systems: (1) ramp (CO and (2)
pulse of finite duration.
5.9. The dynamic response of Ts in the heat exchanger and stirred-tank sys
tem in Figure Q5.9 is to be determined for a step increase in the flow to
the exchanger Fex, with the total coolant flow Fc constant. (Assume that
negligible transportation lag occurs in the pipes.)
(a) Derive the models for both stirred tanks.
(b) Determine the individual transfer functions.
(c) Derive the overall transfer function.
(d) Which of the general system structures covered in this chapter de
scribes this system?
(e) Explain the numerator zeros (if any) and poles in the system.
(f) Describe the dynamic response of this system for the input step change
in Fv.
171
- k Questions
U
F = constant
"by
FIGURE Q5.9
5.10. The system of vessels in Figure Q5.10 has gas flowing through it, and F0
is independent of Pi.
(a) Assume that the flow through the restrictions is subsonic.
(1) Derive linearized models for the pressure in each system.
(2) Determine the transfer function for F2(s)/Fq(s).
(3) Describe the response of this system to a step in Fo.
(b) Repeat the analysis in part (a) for sonic flow through the restrictions.
FIGURE Q5.10
Questions
Liquid in
Constant
Hot fluid flow out
ia) ib)
f^l
'in
-C^r-^
(c) id)
FIGURE Q5.13
'AO
U- 'Al
do 'A2
do
FIGURE Q5.14
heat with the feed in the heat exchanger. A single, zeroth-order reaction of A
-> products occurs in the second reactor with a heat of reaction (A Hnn).
id) Formulate a model of the system to predict the temperature response in
both tanks to a change in the feed temperature with all flows constant,
and linearize the model. Determine to which process structure category
this process belongs.
ib) Determine under what conditions the system would experience (i) pe
riodic behavior and (ii) unstable behavior,
FIGURE Q5.15
(c) Discuss your results and limitations in the model.
[Hint: This system is simpler than Example 3.10, in that the coolant flow
is constant; thus, UA = aF^ is constant. It is more complex in that the
energy balances for the two tanks must be solved simultaneously.]
5.16. The recycle system in Figure Q5.16 has a well-mixed, isothermal, constant-
volume reactor and subsequent separation unit, in which the unreacted
feed is separated from the product and returned to the reactor. A single
step change occurs in the reactor temperature, which can be considered a
step in the rate constant of the first-order reaction. Model the system and
determine and compare the dynamics for two operating methods.
Solvent
174
rAr
CHAPTER 5 Pure
Dynamic Behavior of Products
Typical Process
Systems
A
Lk and
Solvent
Pure A
FIGURE Q5.16
Transportation delay 5.18. One way to account for imperfect mixing in a single stirred tank is to