Abstract
Computer control and reliability engineering of processes have tended to develop separately, but the control computer can make a major contribution to improving reliability and operability in the process industries. Computer-based control systems are potentially highly reliable for basic feedback and logical control, and computer functions which are now conventional can greatly improve operability. In addition, however, the computer has potential—at present largely unexploited—for detecting and compensating for malfunctions, including incipient malfunctions, in plant equipment and instrumentation. It also offers a facility for obtaining high quality information on such malfunctions. In short, a computer-based system can be used to monitor and upgrade equipment reliability and process operability and is thus a major tool for loss prevention.
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