A fuzzy–split range control system applied to a fermentation process

In this study it was proposed the application of a fuzzy-PI controller in tandem with a split range control strategy to regulate the temperature inside a fermentation vat. Simulations were carried out using different configurations of fuzzy controllers and split range combinations for regulatory control. The performance of these control systems were compared using conventional integral of error criteria, the demand of utilities and the control effort. The proposed control system proved able to adequately regulate the temperature in all the tests. Besides, considering a similar ITAE index and using the energetically most efficient split range configuration, fuzzy-PI controller provided a reduction of approximately 84.5% in the control effort and of 6.75% in total demand of utilities by comparison to a conventional PI controller.