Modeling and simulation for the control of postcombustion in the conditions of the nickel reduction process

Abstract

Complex physical and chemical processes occur in reduction furnaces, characterized by multiple inputs and multiple outputs, strong interactions, nonlinearities and dynamic characteristics that vary with time. Attempts to control the oven using classical control strategies have not been successful. Taking into account that the operation is carried out by operators based on their experience, skill and on the historical behaviour of the process variables, experimental identification is carried out in the afterburning area, with the scoop of knowing the dynamics of the process for its better study and understanding. The identification gives us the possibility of obtaining a mathematical model as close as possible to the plant, which can be used to propose a strategy of temperature control in households 4 and 6 of the furnace. A survey is made of the main theoretical aspects related to the processes of nickel reduction and identification, as well as the input signal to excite the system. The experiments that were carried out are described and the mathematical models obtained are validated, using as tool of calculation the “Toolbox” of identification of the MATLAB program finally an economic and environmental analysis of an adequate control in the post combustion is presented.