Model-based control of particle properties in fluidised bed spray granulation

•Populations balance modelling of fluidised bed spray granulation•Unstable steady-state operation with internal and external product classification•Design of robust linear PI feedback controller•Design on non-linear constrained model predictive controller•Stabilisation of unstable process states

In this contribution different control approaches, ranging from standard linear control to non-linear model predictive control, are applied to fluidised bed spray granulation processes with internal and external product classification. These processes exhibit sustained non-linear oscillations in the particle property distribution, i.e. size distribution, that have negative influence on steady-state operation, for example a constant product mass flow with constant properties. The controllers are applied to stabilise these open-loop unstable steady-states.

Graphical abstractDifferent control approaches are applied to fluidised bed spray granulation processes with internal and external product classification. These processes exhibit sustained non-linear oscillations in the particle property distribution that have negative influence on desired operation and product quality. The controllers are applied to stabilise these open-loop unstable steady-states.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide