Module 11. Batch Reactor

Batch chemical reactors are commonly used in the specialty chemical and pharmaceutical industries. The focus of this textbook has been on continuous processes that operate at some nominal steady-state value. Batch processes are dynamic by nature and usually have a time-varying setpoint profile. Some of the challenges of batch reactor control are outlined in this module.

After studying this module, the reader should be able to do the following:

• Understand the effect of scale-up on the dynamic characteristics of a jacketed batch chemical reactor. Further, understand how these characteristics affect the control-system design and operating performance.

• Understand some common control configurations and controller tuning techniques. Tuning for ramp vs. step setpoint changes, and tuning for disturbance rejection.

M11.1 Background

M11.2 Batch Model 1: Jacket Temperature Manipulated

M11.3 Batch Model 2: Jacket Inlet Temperature Manipulated

M11.4 Batch Model 3: Cascade Control

M11.5 Summary