For those thinking of using or specifying a cascade control system, a white paper from West Control Solutions explains what it is, why it is used, where it can be useful and how to set it up for your process application.

Cascade control is a control method used in dual-stage processes in which one substance is used to change the temperature of another substance. Such systems can be useful in processes such as milk pasteurization or in heat exchangers for industrial heating. Applications where one material heats another are difficult to control with a single instrument, resulting in temperature overshoots and lags that can damage product quality and efficiency. However, if two controllers — each with its own input — are cascaded in series, they form a single device that regulates the temperature across the two substances, balancing the system. The result is maintained product quality and increased energy efficiency.

To download "Improving Process Quality with Cascade Control," visit http://bit.ly/cascadecontrol.