Controls News 13
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Technical support:
New customer training centre in the factory
Learning the basics playfully
Thereafter, we train employees in the basics of con-
trol technology. The training comprises, inter alia:
–
the basics of measurement and control technology
–
recognition of process behaviour
–
assessing process controllability
–
understanding and regulating PID controllers
–
correct implementation of basic control strategies
The training includes a practical component using
the Mini-HVAC facility developed by Saia®. Each
workstation is equipped with one of these devices.
The devices simulate a room with a ventilation sys-
tem. They consist of a Plexiglas chamber inwhich the
heating load is simulated by lamps.
The room is conditioned using a recirculation
system. The recirculation system contains heat
exchanger which is supplied via a three-way valve
and a cold-water pump.
The hydraulic system is visualized via built-in flow
indicator, so it is easy to see how the water is mixed
according to demand using the three-way val-
ve (see YouTube video of the mini-HVAC system:
web code en13126b).
This model provides a basic understanding of the
processes to be controlled. A range of experiments
are performed in groups with different control
settings, and the results are analysed together.
The overarching objective is to ensure that trainees
can interpret historical trend data, understand pro-
cesses, and determine the correct parameters for
stable control. Once the training component has
been completed, it’s time to work with real ventila-
tion facilities.
Learning ICA applications with Saia® PCD
in real facilities
First of all, a number of theoretical principles
are taught. These relate to the construction and
operation of HVAC primary plants and include the
following topics:
–
the basics of ventilation technology
–
the construction and components of a ventilation
system and regulation/control using Saia systems
–
control strategies for ventilation facilities
actuator
measuring
device
setpoint
W
Controller
control
mechanism
comparison
mechanism
process
One of many mini-HVAC facilities used for
training purposes
Saia®Webpanel with
the facility diagram
of a mini-HVAC training
module
