Module Details

Module Code: PHYS6025
Title: Introduction - Process Control
Long Title: Introduction - Process Control
NFQ Level: Fundamental
Valid From: Semester 2 - 2023/24 ( January 2024 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 4411 - Physics
Module Delivered in: 6 programme(s)
Module Description: Introduction to the fundamental concepts of control for process and automation industries.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Describe the components of simple process control systems.
LO2 Describe the information path of signals within a control system.
LO3 Distinguish between control strategies used in the process and automation industries.
LO4 Analyse laboratory data and compile laboratory reports.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
18841 PHYS6025 Introduction - Process Control
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Introduction to Control
The need for control, block diagrams, open and closed loop control, positive and negative feedback, analog control versus discrete control. Basic control equations and control definitions
Control Modes
Principle and function of the controller, discontinuous and continuous modes. Proportional, integral and derivative (PID)concepts. Composite control modes, examples and applications.
Control Strategy
Simple control strategies applicable to the process industries. Time-domain analysis of process output. Zeigler-Nichols tuning methods.
Control Valves
The valve as final actuation element, current to pneumatic converters, direct and reverse acting. Valve trim including plugs, seats and positioners. Calculations on valve sizing.
Practical Programme
Two position control using thermistor, valve characterisation, PID modelling of flow and temperature, PID control of a cascade control rig, orifice plate flow system and tank level process. Zeigler-Nichols tuning technique
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Short Answer Questions % of Total Mark 20
Timing Week 6 Learning Outcomes 1,2
Assessment Description
Lecture material delivered between weeks 1 and 5
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 40
Timing Every Second Week Learning Outcomes 4
Assessment Description
Practical skills developed on control rigs.
Assessment Type Short Answer Questions % of Total Mark 40
Timing Week 13 Learning Outcomes 2,3,4
Assessment Description
Short answer question on all course material held at the end of course.
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Theory Delivery Every Week 3.00 3
Lab Contact Practical Programme Every Second Week 1.00 2
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Further Study / Development of Delivered Theory Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 8.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
This module has no Part Time workload.
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • W. Bolton. (2013), Instrumentation and control systems, 4th. 13, Newnes, UK, [ISBN: 9780750664325].
  • W. Bolton. (2011), Control engineering, 4th. Longman, Harlow, Essex, [ISBN: 0-582-32773-3].
  • Dorf and Bisphop. (2016), Modern Control Systems, 13th. 1 and 2, Pearson, U.S.A, [ISBN: 9780131383104].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_EMECH_7 Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering 2 Elective
CR_SINEN_8 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Instrument Engineering 4 Mandatory
CR_SPHYS_7 Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics and Instrumentation 4 Mandatory
CR_SINAU_8 Certificate in Advanced Industrial Automation 2 Mandatory
CR_EMECH_6 Higher Certificate in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering 2 Elective
CR_SPHYS_6 Higher Certificate in Science in Applied Physics and Instrumentation 4 Mandatory