Superheated Steam Temperature Control Optimization Using Outsourced LABVIEW DMC Controller

Superheated steam temperature control is essential to improve lifetime efficiency of thermal power generators. In this paper, the superheated steam temperature control was outsourced from DCS (distributed control system) to LABVIEW based DMC (dynamic matrix control) controller (an industrial WINDOWS computer). The DMC controller communicated with DCS to realize real-time data exchange using MODBUS TCP protocol, and LABVIEW was used to programme the DMC algorithm. A ‘tracing- switching -monitoring’ mechanism ensured the safe operation of the whole control system. The control scheme was implemented on a 300MW unit and plant test run was carried out, results showed that DMC control outran cascaded PID control in respect of dynamic characteristics and regulation time. The outsourced DMC control scheme was proven to be effective,safe and reliable.