Coupled-Tank Control Apparatus PP-100

The PP-100 coupled-tank control apparatus consists of a perspex tower-type tank mounted above a reservoir which functions as storage for water. A baffle plate in the centre divides the large tank into two smaller tanks, and a stream of water is delivered at the top of each smaller tank by a motor pump. Each tank is fitted with an outlet at the side near the base, and this outlet is connected by a hose which returns water to the reservoir. The baffle plate can be adjusted, by sliding up or down, so that inter-tank flow, and hence coupling dynamics, can be varied as a function of differential head. An overflow return pipe near the top of the tank is also provided.

The two pump motors are PWM-controlled: they can be driven either directly using external PWM sources, or 0-5Vdc analog voltages. Electronic circuitry converts the analog inputs to suitable PWM signals. It also provides two potentiometers to allow manual operation of the motors. The water level in each tank is monitored by a capacitive-type probe. Output signals from these two probes are processed by signal conditioners and made available as 0 to 5Vdc signals. Scales are also attached on the sides of the tanks to give a visual feedback of the water levels.

Specifications may subject to change without notice

The KRi Coupled-Tank Control Apparatus PP-100 is a low-cost pilot plant designed for teaching both introductory and advanced control systems theory in the laboratory. This apparatus can be used in the teaching of design, operation and application of common controllers; system modeling using static and transient measurements; steady state error analysis; transient response studies; and, controller tuning methods. It also demonstrates fluid transportation and level controls, dynamic problems typical in the process control industry.

Last Updated 31 May 2007