ADAPTIVE CONTROL OF TEMPERATURE FOR MINIMIZATION OPERATING COSTS OF INDUSTRIAL METHANE TANK PROCESS

An algorithm for adaptive control of temperature in methane tank is developed in order to minimize operating costs under variation of the methane tank process conditions. The adaptation is based on process model and on-line minimization of objective function that relates operating costs to the process variables. Mathematical model for prediction of biogas production and simulation of the temperature control process is identified using experimental data from the waste water treatment plant. The temperature adaptive control system is investigated via computer simulation of the control system performance under operating conditions of real methane tank process during one year period. The process operating costs by optimal control of temperature are compared to those of temperature control at constant set-point. The model identification and the control system simulation results are presented and discussed.