Greg McMillan

3 weeks ago | emersonautomationexperts.com | Jim Cahill |Greg McMillan

If you’re an engineer working in a process with centrifugal or axial compressors, you’re probably well-versed in the topic of compressor surge. If not, I came across a nice post from several years ago on the Mechanical Engineering Site, Centrifugal Compressor Surge Basics, Mechanism. Here is how the author defines surge.

2 months ago | emersonautomationexperts.com | Jim Cahill |Greg McMillan

The Smith predictor control algorithm goes back to the 1950s. Its purpose and history are described in Wikipedia. The Smith predictor (invented by O. J. M. Smith in 1957) is a type of predictive controller designed to control systems with a significant feedback time delay. But is it the best approach to handle feedback time delay? A fascinating ControlGlobal.com article, Face-off: Smith Predictor vs. deadtime compensated PID, highlights the possibility of a better approach.

Jan 15, 2025 | controlglobal.com | Greg McMillan

Control valves are used to manipulate flows in most control loops. Control valve selection and specification is critical to achieving good control loop and process performance. Here’s a look at some of the essential aspects of the best control valves. Let’s start with what I think is the missing knowledge that’s important for the control valve’s dynamic response.

Dec 6, 2024 | controlglobal.com | Greg McMillan

Greg: There’s been a lot of buzz in the industry regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). Vendors claim their tools can transform operations and leap tall buildings in a single bound. So, how do we get past the hype and unlock the real value for industrial plants? Julie Smith, group manager for DuPont’s Engineering Technology Center and its global automation and process control leader, is once again here to discuss these two trends.

Nov 7, 2024 | controlglobal.com | Greg McMillan

Greg: I’ve previously advocated using dynamic simulation to drive process control improvements and train operators. But there’s another, sometimes overlooked, use case for getting the most out of control system migration projects. Julie Smith, DuPont group manager and global automation and process control leader at the Engineering Technology Center, offers insights gained over many decades. Julie, has your team seen value in this use case?