Abstract

Adaptive and conventional control of a direct rotary dryer has been assessed through simulations. A dynamic model of the process was developed specifically for this purpose. The model is based on mass and energy balances and includes a drying kinetic derived from mass transfer principles. In the modelling process, ten discrete perfectly mixed elements were considered for the dryer with each containing four differential equations. A well tuned discrete PID and an adaptive algorithm were used to control the outlet solid humidity. Both controllers can regulate the controlled variable for different disturbances, although the adaptive controller is more effective. © 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.