Do DCS manufacturers tune the control system parameters during configuration?
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I am currently working at a chemical plant, which is currently undergoing renovations to its sulfonic acid production facility, including the installation of an Allen-Bradley DCS system. The configuration of this system has now been completed. As I majored in automation and have a keen interest in control systems, I asked a few technicians from the instrumentation team whether it was necessary to adjust the parameters of the control system. They said that the manufacturer had already set everything up, so no changes were needed. It seems they don’t understand this aspect either. So I would like to ask everyone, isn’t it necessary to tune the parameters of the control system for the specific object?
It’s still best if all DCS manufacturers do it well
For simple control loops involving normal flow rates and pressures, the default parameters are usually sufficient to ensure proper operation. However, it’s not feasible when dealing with temperature control loops, as we always adjust the parameters ourselves when working on projects. However, system manufacturers still have the capability to make adjustments.
Precise temperature control definitely requires on-site PID tuning, with adjustments made according to the process conditions.
Normally, PID parameter tuning should be carried out on-site, but nowadays DCS configuration designs generally provide the required setting values, which are sufficient to meet the control requirements; adjustments can be made on-site if those values are not adequate.
It is generally set during debugging; making adjustments during operation later on may cause unnecessary problems.
Tuning isn’t useful during configuration, nor is it useful during debugging; this issue can only be resolved through long-term optimization.
The default settings of a regular system are usually sufficient to meet the process requirements.
It is estimated that fine-tuning will still be needed once the system is working properly
Yes. During operation, the system is fine-tuned according to the process. Is it not immutable?
Parameter tuning: In my opinion, it mainly involves setting the PID parameters for simple control loops. Control system manufacturers usually don’t do this, as it is supposed to be the task of process engineers. During the debugging process, the debugging of a single circuit is limited to the active aspects, such as cable calibration and adjustments to the forward and reverse actions. However, the quality of process engineers at the current stage generally does not meet this standard.