A multivariable Smith predictor for intelligent control of a cupola furnace

A cupola is a furnace used for melting pig iron, scrap steel, cast iron scrap, foundry return scrap, and ferroalloys to a specified tapping temperature and chemical composition. Automatic control of the process is introduced to help improve the role of the cupola in the foundry industry by producing lower material and processing costs and improved product quality. A multivariable Smith predictor is used as part of an intelligent control scheme we have developed to control the cupola. A description of the cupola process is given from a control perspective. Then the multivariable Smith predictor is presented. Preliminary simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the controller for set-point tracking.