Modeling, Simulation and Control of a Laboratory Scale Continues Stirred Tank Heater

This paper presents the modelling, controller formulation and simulation studies of a Continues Stirred Tank Heater (CSTH). The rig’s analytical model is in a multi input multi output (MIMO) transfer function form considering the physical rig system parameters and limits. Trial and error method is used to design the Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) controller to improve the system’s transient response for zero steady state error, as well as minimizing the rise time and overshoot. The system was simulated in MATLAB ® and system response with and without the controller was compared. The P controller improved the time response, response producing a zero steady state error and small steady state time compared to the system without controller. Increasing the temperature loop gain decreases the temperature output overshoot and transient time. While increasing the level loop gain affects the temperature loop negatively by increasing the overshoot and transient time. The P controller has given an unstable response by increasing the temperature output to the maximum limit producing a big steady state error. A PID controller has been offered as the solution to solve this problem