Implementación de un controlador PI para mejorar el desempeño de una celda de flotación en el tratamiento de aguas aceitosas

Abstract

This work presents the implementation of a cascade control strategy for the S701H flotation cell at the Caño Limón field, with the objective of improving sludge recovery and treated water quality. The solution was developed using only the existing infrastructure, through programming modifications in the PLC and HMI, without requiring the installation of additional equipment. The strategy uses sludge level as the primary control variable and cell level as the secondary control variable. Its performance was validated under different operating conditions by evaluating stability, water quality, and operational impact. The results showed improved compliance with the water quality target, reduced operator dependence, elimination of prolonged periods of idle operation, and better utilization of the sludge recovery capacity. Furthermore, a setpoint of 40 inches was found to provide the most stable performance under the evaluated conditions. Finally, the project demonstrates the ability of electronic engineering and industrial automation to generate operational, environmental, and economic improvements through the efficient use of existing resources, providing a scalable solution for other flotation cells within the company.