A methodology to implement a closed-loop feedback-feedforward level control in a laboratory-scale flotation bank
Paulina Quintanilla1, Daniel Navia2, Felipe Moreno2
1Department of Earth Science and Engineering, Royal School of Mines, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom.
Methodsx
|March 10, 2023
Summary
Implementing a feedforward control strategy significantly enhances level control performance in laboratory-scale flotation systems. This method, using peristaltic pumps, offers a practical solution for researchers in mineral processing.
Area of Science:
- Chemical Engineering
- Process Control
- Mineral Processing
Background:
- Industrial flotation systems commonly use complex control strategies.
- Laboratory-scale flotation systems require robust level control for accurate process simulation.
- Peristaltic pumps are prevalent in lab settings but less documented for control implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate a level control strategy for a laboratory-scale flotation system.
- To compare classical feedback control with a combined feedback-feedforward strategy.
- To document the use of peristaltic pumps for level control in this context.
Main Methods:
- A three-tank series flotation system was utilized, mimicking industrial setups.
- A feedforward control strategy was integrated alongside a classical feedback control strategy.
- Peristaltic pumps were employed for precise fluid level management.
- PI parameters were tuned using SIMC rules and step-change tests.
Main Results:
- The combined feedback-feedforward control strategy significantly improved level control performance.
- The implemented methodology demonstrated effective disturbance rejection.
- The use of peristaltic pumps for level control was validated experimentally.
Conclusions:
- Feedforward control offers a substantial improvement for level control in flotation systems.
- The documented methodology provides a valuable reference for researchers using peristaltic pumps in similar systems.
- This study validates a practical approach for enhancing laboratory-scale flotation experiments.
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