PID controls are a crucial part of just about any type of industrial control system. The PID control loop maintains three parameters to monitor control systems and ensure that everything is functioning as it should and within minimum error and optimum speed requirements. 

How a PID control loop works

PID stands for the three parameters that it monitors and manipulates–the proportional, the integral, and the derivative values. Every input into the PID controller has a set point that it’s supposed to meet, and the controller essentially determines how different the actual measurement of the input signal is compared to that setpoint, a value referred to as ‘process variable’ or the error value. The proportional, integral, and derivative values are mathematical computations that the PID controller uses in order to monitor and send along the output signal. 

• The Proportional refers to the actual output of the PID controller, which is proportional to the current error value. 
• The Integral is a value proportional both to the magnitude and duration of the error, allowing the controller to monitor long-term accuracy of the input signal. 
• The Derivative offers a prediction of future error, computed based on the current rate of change measured. 

Once the output has been sent, it’s also fed back into the input, creating a loop and allowing the controller to self-regulate in order to maintain the desired output value.

The Applications of a PID Control Loop

The biggest advantage of PID controllers is their precision–so systems that require extremely precise control of things like temperature, pressure, flow, or other automated processes benefit significantly from these types of control systems. They can be found extensively in automation and motion control, where systems monitor pressure, flow rate, motor speed, tool position, and even internal climates, among many other things. Medical equipment, agricultural environments, robotics, industrial production, water treatment, and many, many other applications utilize some sort of PID control loop to monitor and maintain proper control over their electronic systems. 

About Process Solutions & Products (PSP)

PSP specializes in manufacturing custom control systems and automation for industries like medical equipment, industrial manufacturing, and Oil & Gas, like the PID control loop. If you’re interested in working with us, head over to our website to get started!