PD-04-193 Closed Loop Testing and Process Identification Reduces MPC Deployment at the Hovensa Refinery - A Case Study

Description:

In the last two decades, MPC technology has created tremendous value for the refining and petrochemical industries. An MPC controller can push the process unit to a more profitable region without violating operation constraints. It is not unusual that a large unit MPC generates one to two million US dollar benefit per year. Refineries and petrochemical plants worldwide have implemented MPC controllers for their major processing units. However, huge benefits come with a high price. To implement and to maintain MPC controllers need highly trained and experienced control engineers; MPC projects are very time consuming, and due to the lack of maintenance, many MPC controllers are not fully utilized. Maintenance is becoming a primary issue in MPC applications.