Meta Description: Explore PID principles with the Matrix Level Control System CT5971, designed for engineering students. Aidex supplies this hands-on learning tool to educators. Order yours today.
The Level Control System CT5971 provides a fundamental and practical introduction to the principles of Proportional, Integral, and Derivative (PID) control. Designed for benchtop use, this compact system allows students to engage directly with the core elements of industrial process control in a safe and observable environment. It breaks down complex theories into tangible actions and outcomes. The system is built around a clear process vessel, a water reservoir, a variable speed pump, and a pressure-based level sensor. Students can manipulate the pump speed and a proportional drain valve, allowing them to see in real-time how their adjustments affect the water level. This immediate feedback is crucial for developing an intuitive understanding of control system dynamics, making it an essential tool for engineering and technical education programs aiming to bridge the gap between theory and application.
Using the CT5971, students build a foundational understanding of process control from the ground up. The learning journey begins with the elemental components, such as understanding the drive system and the function of the sensors. From there, the curriculum progresses to simple on/off control systems to establish a baseline. Students then explore more advanced concepts, including the application of PI and PID controllers to manage the system’s time constant. A key part of the curriculum involves mastering the Zeigler-Nichols algorithm for tuning controllers, addressing practical issues like integral wind-up, and applying derivative filters. This structured approach empowers students to not only learn the theory but also to develop the practical skill of manual tuning, a critical competency for any process control engineer or technician.
| Feature | Description |
| Product dimensions | Approximately 500 x 300 x 400 mm (L x W x H) (estimated for benchtop) |
| Product weight | Approximately 10 kg (estimated for benchtop) |
| Applicable education levels | Higher Education, University Engineering Programs, Vocational Training |
| SKU | CT5971 |
| Core components | Reservoir water tank, variable speed pump, pressure-based level sensor, clear process vessel with scale, proportional drain valve, overflow pipe. |
| User adjustments | Adjustable pump speed and valve opening. |
| Learning objective 1 | Understanding the drive |
| Learning objective 2 | Understanding the sensors |
| Learning objective 3 | On/Off control systems |
| Learning objective 4 | System time constant |
| Learning objective 5 | PI controller |
| Learning objective 6 | PID controller |
| Learning objective 7 | Zeigler Nichols algorithm |
| Learning objective 8 | Integral wind up |
| Learning objective 9 | Derivative filter |
| Learning objective 10 | Manual tuning |
| Software resources | Process Control API, MATLAB Process Control software, Process Control Software. |
| Example resources | Process Control Manual, Remote Lab Connection – Process Control. |
| Related worksheets | Understanding Process Control worksheets (Available in English, French, and Spanish). |
Aidex is proud to supply the Level Control System CT5971 to learning institutions across the Midwest. We are committed to equipping educators and students in the region with the industry-leading tools they need to succeed.
The curriculum deconstructs process control into fundamental principles. It begins with understanding system components like drives and sensors, progresses to basic On/Off control, and then builds to advanced topics including PI and PID controllers, the Zeigler-Nichols tuning algorithm, integral wind-up, derivative filters, and manual tuning techniques.
This system is designed for students in higher education, including university-level engineering programs and vocational or technical training centers. It provides a practical, hands-on introduction to the core concepts of industrial process control for future engineers and technicians.
A PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller is a common control loop mechanism used in industrial control systems. It continuously calculates an error value as the difference between a desired setpoint and a measured process variable and applies a correction based on proportional, integral, and derivative terms.
The system is enhanced with available software resources, including a Process Control API for custom development, dedicated MATLAB Process Control software, and general Process Control Software. These tools allow for deeper analysis and remote lab connections.
The main components include a reservoir water tank, a variable speed pump, a pressure-based level sensor for accurate measurement, and a clear process vessel with a measurement scale. It also features a proportional valve for draining the vessel and an overflow pipe for safety.
For more information or to contact Aidex, your Authorized Reseller, call 800-251-9935 or email info@aidex.com.
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