Dynamic computer regulation of a dry-process cement kiln

The paper describes the application of adigital computer to the dynamic regulation of a dry-process Humboldt cement kiln and its associated Fuller cooler. The background to the project and an outline of this particular process and its control problems are given. The control hardware is then briefly outlined, together with details of the kiln models and their method of derivation. Particular attention is paid to the problem of measuring the burning-zone temperature, and the close correlation of this measurement with kiln power, which can be used as an alternative indication of burning zone temperature in the short term. The control system and the discrete equations for control of the kiln are also given, together with a discussion of their functions. One feature of this application, which greatly reduced commissioning time, was the implementation of the linear and nonlinear control equations entirely by a standard conversational control package online via a control panel without programming in the conventional sense. The commissioning procedure and the results obtained under control are discussed.