Control of a Heat Exchanger Using Neural Network Predictive Controller and Auxiliary Fuzzy Controller

The paper presents an advanced control strategy that uses the neural network predictive controller and the fuzzy controller in the complex control structure with an auxiliary control variable. The controlled tubular heat exchanger was used for pre-heating of petroleum by hot water. The heat exchanger was modelled as a nonlinear system with interval parametric uncertainty. The set point tracking and the disturbance rejection using intelligent control strategies were investigated. The control objective was to keep the outlet temperature of the pre-heated petroleum at a reference value. Simulations of control of the tubular heat exchanger were done in the Matlab/Simulink environment. The neural network predictive control (NNPC) with fuzzy controller was compared with classical PID control. Simulation results obtained using NNPC with fuzzy controller and those obtained by classical PID control confirmed the effectiveness and superiority of the presented advanced control approach.