Closed-Loop Energy Management Control of Large Industrial Facilities

Abstract

A case study is presented of a closed-loop control system installed and running at a Pulp and Paper facility in the southeast. A fuzzy logic, ruled-based control system optimally loads multiple steam turbines for maximum electrical generation, while providing steam to the process. A Sell Advisor calculates Make-Buy decisions based on real-time electrical prices, fuel prices and boiler loads. Condensing turbines are coordinated with closed-loop control to provide the lowest energy cost to the plant. When economical, additional electrical generation is achieved by venting low-pressure steam. By manipulating turbine loads, boilers are pushed to optimal loading through process coupling. Multi-variable control strategies push process envelopes to constraints.