CME3008 : Process Control
CME3008 : Process Control
- Offered for Year: 2024/25
- Module Leader(s): Dr Mark Willis
- Owning School: Engineering
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 10 |
| ECTS Credits: | 5.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
N/A
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
None
Aims
Process control involves the selection and tailoring of methods for the efficient operation of chemical processes. Proper application of process control can improve the safety and profitability of processes. This course provides an overview of process control algorithms as well as the mathematical techniques used to analyze process systems. The aim is to learn how to select appropriate control schemes and strategies for common unit operations encountered within the chemical industry.
Outline Of Syllabus
Revision of Laplace transforms and block diagram analysis; Mechanistic and data-based process modelling; The open loop step test; Review of conventional control; Proportional – Integral – Derivative (PID) tuning methods; Control systems stability and performance. Advanced control techniques such as feedforward control and decoupling control.
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
(1) To demonstrate a clear understanding of chemical process dynamics and conventional control procedures (C1).
(2) To gain an appreciation of control systems analysis tools, such as the final value theorem and stability analysis (C3).
(3) To understand the limitations of conventional control techniques in terms of performance and stability (C3,C4).
Intended Skill Outcomes
(1) To be able to develop appropriate process transfer functions using either collected process data or their mechanistic basis (C1, C3).
(2) To be able to develop closed loop transfer functions and analyze the stability and performance of a closed loop system (C1, C3).
(3) To tune feedback controllers (PID) and understand the stability performance trade-off (C3,C4).
(4) To be able to design advanced control algorithms, such as feedforward controllers (C3).
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 40:00 | 40:00 | End of semester closed book examination |
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 10 | 2:00 | 20:00 | Activity modules within Canvas. Detailed notes supported by videos, quizzes, formative assessment |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 10 | 1:00 | 10:00 | N/A |
| Structured Guided Learning | Academic skills activities | 10 | 3:00 | 30:00 | Tutorial sheets for each of the main topics covered in the module |
| Total | 100:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
Lectures convey the mathematical concepts and theory of process control, the Canvas activity modules support this through illustration and problem solving.
Tutorial sheets and other formative activities are used to prepare the students for the end of semester closed book examination.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | 90 | 1 | A | 100 | Closed book exam |
Exam Pairings
| Module Code | Module Title | Semester | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Process Control (Industry) | 1 | N/A |
Zero Weighted Pass/Fail Assessments
| Description | When Set | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Computer assessment | M | MCQ - Formative Assessment (1 hour) |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The end of semester closed book examination is an appropriate way to assess acquired knowledge and problem solving skills.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- CME3008's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- CME3008's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
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The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2024 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Module information for the 2025/26 entry will be published here in early-April 2025. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.