Development and Field Test of the Central Energy Plant Adaptive Control System (CEPACS)
Abstract
Spare parts for the outdated control systems at many Army central energy plants (CEPS) are difficult to acquire. This fact, combined with recent price reductions in modern control hardware and software, has made it practical to replace these old systems with controls that incorporate modern electronics and advanced boiler-control technologies to improve safety, reliability, and efficiency. This report documents the development of a prototype Central Energy Plant Adaptive Control System (CEPACS) and the results of a field test of the system in a gas/oil-fired boiler at the University of Illinois Abbott Power Plant in Champaign, IL. The prototype self-tuning adaptive system is a complete controller for a steam generation system that achieves a high degree of operational automation; the system significantly reduces the need for operator intervention into plant operation. The first set of field trials demonstrated excellent combustion control as well as improved drum pressure controls. The results indicate immediate payback in terms of fuel savings and enhanced safety.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA283812
Entities
People
- Dow Drake
- Joseph Bentsman
- Mike C. Lin
- Norman Miller
- Yaoxin Qian
Organizations
- Construction Engineering Research Laboratory