Move penalty parameter optimization on an experimental CMPC application

The work completed in this thesis was geared toward commissioning a multivariable controller that would optimize feed rate to a binary distillation column that separates methanol and water. ONLINERTM was the CMPC optimizer used in conjunction with FIXDMACS 32RTM for advanced control of the column. The system was modeled as a 2 x 3 system with one load variable. The manipulated variables were reflux, steam, and feed flows; the controlled variables were top and bottom temperatures; and the disturbance variable was ambient temperature. The move penalty parameters within ONLINE RTM were to be optimized so that the controller effectively maximizes feed while providing satisfactory temperature control.;The simulations suggested a 10:20:2 ratio for the move penalties of reflux, steam, and feed respectively. This configuration was implemented on the column. The controller maximized feed to 56% and gave excellent control of top and bottom temperatures. These results suggest that the models were accurate and that the simulations were able to provide useful information concerning the column performance. In addition, the results prove that CMPC is an excellent tool for optimization and control of the 2 x 3 system.;The step response models for the system were obtained from previous work completed by Errol Jacob. Extensive effort was put into configuring the database, building schematics, and setting up ONLINERTM and Datamanager for simulations and column operation. Once this was completed, several simulations were performed to determine the best values for the move penalty parameters. The column was then operated with the configuration suggested by the simulations.