Model predictive control applied to a continuous annealing line

In continuous processing lines, product quality requirements demand that strip annealing temperature is accurately and precisely controlled. Most annealing furnaces are regulated by Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) controllers which, being reactive to process variations, could result in off-specification material. To address this issue Fives has developed Model Predictive Control (MPC). The key word here is ‘predictive’, enabling the system to react in advance of a process change, such as during coil transition phases. This, then, provides better strip quality as well as enhanced plant productivity.