Development of a computer based process control system for an autoclave to cure polymer matrix composites

摘要

Autoclave is a process control system used in a number of industries such as aerospace, pharmaceutical, chemical, food processing and health care. NAL has pioneered the design and development of autoclaves in India to cure polymer matrix composites. This paper explains the development of a computer based multi-mode process control system for an autoclave, which is used to fabricate composites structures for aircrafts, satellites and other aerospace applications. This system comprises of a desktop computer, Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), analog data scanner, PID based Front-End Controllers (FEC) etc. It provides Auto, Semi-auto and Manual modes of operation. This paper also presents the strategies for control of autoclave temperature, part temperature and autoclave pressure along with the computer integration aspects. These techniques have been realized and successfully implemented in a couple of autoclaves.