Vol. Control Systems
Chapter Process Dynamics and PID Controller Tuning

Process Dynamics and PID Controller Tuning - Overview

To tune a feedback control system means to adjust parameters in the controller to achieve robust control over the process. “Robust” in this context is usually defined as stability of the process variable despite changes in load, fast response to changes in setpoint, minimal oscillation following either type of change, and minimal offset (error between setpoint and process variable) over time.

“Robust control” is far easier to define than it is to achieve. With PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control being the most common feedback control algorithm used in industry, it is important for all instrumentation practitioners to understand how to tune these controllers effectively and with a minimum investment of time.

Different types of processes, having different dynamic (time-dependent) behaviors, require different levels of proportional, integral, and derivative control action to achieve stability and robust response. It is therefore imperative for anyone seeking to tune a PID controller to understand the dynamic nature of the process being controlled. For this reason, the chapter begins with an exploration of common process characteristics before introducing techniques useful in choosing practical P, I, and D tuning parameter values.

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