Now that the basic PID terms have been examined, we can now look deeper into the PID calculations and some less common variations that can be used. Defining KP In the basic definition of the Proportional Term in Part 1, the Proportional Term was calculated by finding the Error (either SP-PV or PV-SP) and multiplying it by a […]
PID Loops in Boiler Control Systems Part 1: The Anatomy of a PID
PID loops are a central component of modulating boiler control systems with applications ranging from basic steam header pressure control to cascading 3-element drum level control. A modern full-metering combustion controller with draft, FGR, VSD, and O2 trim can have as many as 10 PID loops running at once, with some interacting with each other. With this in […]
Choosing Between SIL2 and SIL3: Striking the Right Balance of Safety and Cost
Safety Integrity Levels (SIL) are critical in ensuring the reliability and safety of safety-related systems in various industries, including process automation, transportation, and manufacturing. SIL2 and SIL3 represent two different levels of functional safety, each with their own advantages and trade-offs. When designing safety-critical systems, engineers often face the dilemma of choosing between these two levels. This article […]
Modernizing NYC’s Psychiatric Facility: A Boiler Control Retrofit Story
In the world of ever-evolving codes and regulations, it’s a must for industries to stay up to date. And this is particularly important for vital places like that psychiatric facility right in New York City. Recently, this facility experienced a transformative retrofit, replacing its old Cleaver Brooks boiler control panels with the advanced and intuitive BurnerMate Universal (BMU) […]
Understanding SCADA Systems
-Estera Cioroch, Danbury, CT SCADAs are used anywhere there is a need to regulate automated functions, including manufacturing, power generation, water treatment and distribution, food production and refrigeration, oil and gas refining, mass transit and traffic regulation, and so much more. Given their broad use and application, understanding what they are and what they do is key to […]
NEW Product! 3-Element Drum Level Controller
Preferred brings boiler safety to a new level with the modern 3-element drum level controller: the JC-43D2, 3-Element Drum Level Controller. Featuring a 5″ LED backlit touchscreen and user-friendly configuration, the JC-43D2 brings advanced safety features like level sensor failure detection, redundant backup low water level and high steam pressure burner shutdown, and water column blowdown maintenance reminder […]
Heat Exchangers In Boiler Applications
Howard Wells, Danbury, CT Various heat exchangers are used to capture waste heat contained in boiler exhaust that would otherwise be lost to the atmosphere. These devices are designed to capture the maximum amount of heat possible, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and reduced operational costs. There are three main types of heat exchangers used in boiler applications: […]
Purging Control Panels to Reduce Classification
By Tom O’Marra Hazardous Locations, such as Class I, Division 2 or Class II, Division 2, are common areas to find equipment in the industrial control industry. These are locations, as defined by The National Electrical Code (NEC), where flammable gases or liquids are utilized (C1D2) or in the case of Class II, Division 2, combustible dust. Under […]
A Maryland University opts for Cloud Remote Monitoring System
Automation & Tracking Energy Analytics Keeping boiler rooms safe is the top priority of industrial infrastructure. To do that most effectively, companies like Preferred are continuously upgrading automation controls that increase safety and efficiency. Eliminating human error and providing boiler room technicians with improved tools, we are creating safer and more energy efficient plants, campuses, and industrial process […]
Preferred Utilities FSC-120 Controller Approved for Overfill Prevention by Florida DEP
Made in the U.S.A., Preferred demonstrates a commitment to safety and to protecting the environment by receiving Florida State DEP Approval on the Fuel System FSC-120 Controller for Overfill Prevention. Read more on the Fuel System FSC-120 Controller here. We are pleased to announce that the FSC-120 has been approved for overfill prevention by the Florida Department of […]