IMPLEMENTATION OF CONTROL STRATEGIES ON CONTROL LOOPS FIELDBUS FOUNDATION PROTOCOL

The first process control systems used mechanical and pneumatic controllers. Ever since
then, the process control sector has seen numerous developments; amongst them is the
foundation fieldbus technology. Fieldbus has been around for sometime, but not until
recently has it caught the attention of users and manufacturers alike. Fieldbus claims to
require less hardware, have easy installation and commissioning, provide good data both
in quality and quantity, need easy and simple maintenance and be interoperable with
other devices. This project aims to prove those claims. A foundation fieldbus test
platformwill be designed and built. This test platform will include a simple control loop
with fieldbus transmitters, gauges and control valves. A control strategy of cascade
control and PID control will be used. Influenced by the safety system of a plant, the test
platform is designed to emulate part of the fire water pump system. When there is a leak
in the fire water pipes, the drop in pressure inside the pipes will trigger the system to
pump in more water. The first part of this project will cover the research and design
stages. Thorough research on the fieldbus technology, different control strategies and
installation and commissioning is needed for the success ofthe second part of the project.
Once the design has been finalized, and deemed feasible, the test platform will be built.
Tests, troubleshooting and maintenance will follow. In the light of further improving this
project, state-space mode can be used as an alternative control strategy. It should provide
greater performance, increased stability and controllability. Fieldbus has the potential of
being the best, with its extra features, such as diagnostics and predictive maintenance.
Digital control is the thing ofthe future.