Application of Computer Control to the Production of Synthetic Resins

Abstract

The work reported in this thesis was performed as part of a Teaching
Company Scheme organised between BIP Chemicals Limited and the University of Aston. The overall aim of the Scheme was to maximise
the efficiency and economics of the batch processes used for synthetic
resin manufacture. This investigation covers the development of a computer control strategy to be used in the batchwise production of synthetic resins within the overall aim.

The measurement of composition of a recovered solvent feed was
investigated to identify a way of monitoring the composition for use
in control. This objective could be achieved using a dual analyser
system comprising an Ultra-Violet analyser and density meter. Trials
were made of a viscometer to provide on-line information about the reaction's progress during full scale production.

A computer control strategy was developed based on the control
parameters of reaction temperature, mass of aqueous distillate removed
and time. An experimental computer was connected to the instrumentation of a full scale production reactor. The control strategy was implemented using the computer with suitably structured control software. Trials were carried out under production conditions to
confirm the strategy and its implementation.

Date of Award	Oct 1987
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Aston University