Comparison of Robust Model-based Control Strategies Used for a Heat Exchanger Network

Abstract

The paper is focused on advanced control of the heat exchanger network (HEN). The HEN is used for cooling petroleum produced by distillation. The alternative robust model predictive control (RMPC) strategy was implemented to find the optimal control actions taking into account the boundaries on control inputs. The RMPC approach is also able to design a controller managing process uncertainties. The aim is to demonstrate that the robust model predictive control of HEN can be improved and the energy efficiency can be optimised using the nominal system optimization and the additional saturation of control inputs.