Okuzeka
Chemical Engineering vocabulary · Process Control and Instrumentation

PID controller

Meaning in chemical engineering, with examples

nounCommon term

In chemical engineering, PID controller means: The most common type of process controller. It sets its output from three terms: proportional (the present error), integral (past error) and derivative (how fast the error is changing).

In Turkish: PID kontrolör, oransal-integral-türev denetleyici

How it is used

Found in every DCS. Engineers 'tune' a PID controller by adjusting gain, integral time and derivative time. Many loops use only P and I terms; derivative is common in temperature control. Controllers run in manual, auto or cascade mode.

Example sentences

  1. The PID controller on the reactor temperature is too aggressive and keeps overshooting.

  2. Put the PID controller in manual while we check the transmitter.

Common collocations

  • tune a PID controller
  • PID tuning
  • controller gain
  • put the controller in manual
  • cascade control
  • feedback controlA control method that measures the process variable, compares it with the setpoint and adjusts the output, usually a valve, to correct the difference.
  • setpointThe target value that a controller tries to hold, such as a temperature of 85 °C or a tank level of 60%.
  • control loopA set of parts that work together to hold one process variable at its setpoint: a sensor and transmitter, a controller and a final element such as a control valve.
  • DCSShort for distributed control system: the computer-based system that runs the control loops of a plant and gives operators their screens, alarms and trends in the control room.
  • control valveAn automatic valve that opens and closes in small steps on a signal from a controller, so that flow, pressure, level or temperature stays at the setpoint.

More terms: Process Control and Instrumentation

Practise with graded reading

Reading at the right level is the fastest way to make new words stick. Pick free English books by level: