Generalized delta rule (GDR) algorithm with generalized predictive control (GPC) for optimum temperature tracking of batch polymerization

Abstract

The generalized delta rule (GDR) algorithm with generalized predictive control (GPC) control was implemented experimentally to track the temperature on a set point in a batch, jacketed polymerization reactor. An equation for optimal temperature was obtained by using co-state Hamiltonian and model equations. To track the calculated optimal temperature profiles, controller used should act smoothly and precisely as much as possible. Experimental application was achieved to obtain the desired comparison. In the design of this control system, the reactor filled with styrene-toluene mixture is considered as a heat exchanger. When the reactor is heated by means of an immersed heater, cooling water is passed through the reactor-cooling jacket. So the cooling water absorbs the heat given out by the heater. If this is taken into consideration, this reactor can be considered to be continuous in terms of energy. When such a mixing chamber was used as a polymer reactor with defined values of heat input and cooling flow rate, system can reach the steady-state condition. The heat released during the reaction was accepted as a disturbance for the heat exchanger. Heat input from the immersed heater is chosen as a manipulated variable. The neural network model based on the relation between the reactor temperature and heat input to the reactor is used. The performance results of GDR with GPC were compared with the results obtained by using nonlinear GPC with NARMAX model. The reactor temperature closely follows the optimal trajectory. And then molecular weight, experimental conversion and chain lengths are obtained for GDR with GPC. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.