Control of industrial crystallizers

The particle size distribution produced in particulate processes generally has a large impact on process economics, and the crystal size distribution produced in industrial crystallizers is no exception. Crystal Size Distribution (CSD) control is therefore desirable. Its establishment is the main objective of a joint research program between three research groups within the Delft University of Technology and several industrial participants. This paper presents a review of this project and intends (1) to illustrate the development of an on-line crystal size measuring technique, (2) to illustrate how information on CSD can be used to derive a dynamic process model and (3) to emphasize the need for effective process inputs and to make suitable suggestions in that direction.