On-Line Control of Metal Processing. Report of the Committee on On-Line Control of Metal Processing.

摘要

Efficient manufacturing requires modeling of the process so as to understand where controls need to be applied, sensors need to be installed, and a control strategy needs to be executed. This report examines these elements as they apply to metal processing. Process analysis leads to the development of a model that shows the points where controls should be applied. Controls may range from a single loop to sophisticated artificial intelligence. Sensors are used to measure process variables so that they can be controlled in real time in such a way as to attain microstructural, compositional, and geometrical goals. On-line process control has not been widely achieved in metallurgical industries. Casting, forging, and particulate production are examined and evaluated with regard to on-line processing, and the factors that limit progress in this area are discussed. Keywords: Artificial intelligence, On-line control, Process control, Process modeling, Sensors. (JES)