Process control

Process Control is an optional module offered in the industry-oriented itinerary of the Máster en Investigación Química y Química Industrial at the University of Vigo. The course introduces students to the fundamental principles and techniques of process control. Efficient and reliable process control is essential in chemical and industrial plants to guarantee safety, product quality, productivity, and environmental compliance. This module provides students with a solid foundation in dynamic process behavior, feedback and feedforward strategies, instrumentation, and the design and tuning of controllers. The approach is practical and industry-focused.

Process control
Scheme of a cooled chemical reactor
Process control
Concentration of reactants and products as a function
of the residence time

Case studies drawn from chemical engineering, petrochemical processes, and industrial manufacturing illustrate how control systems are applied to stabilize reactors, optimize energy use, and minimize waste. These examples highlight the direct relevance of process control to everyday industrial challenges, reinforcing its importance as a tool for competitiveness. Alongside lectures, students engage in computer-based simulations where they explore process dynamics and experiment with control loops in a virtual environment. These sessions are designed to develop analytical and problem-solving skills while providing experience in the application of control strategies.

By completing this module, students will gain not only technical knowledge but also an appreciation of the strategic role process control plays in industrial innovation. This makes Process Control an ideal choice for those aiming to strengthen their professional profile and prepare for careers in industry.