So, what are the benefits that can result from successful commissioning of an inferential measurement and control scheme? Here is a non-exhaustive list:

First, there is faster return of information: what this means is that process upsets can be detected quicker and remedial action can be taken before it is too late. The inferential estimates usually carry a fair degree of 'feedforward' information. For instance, disturbances affecting tray temperatures in a distillation column may show up much later in the product compositions because of the location of the tray and because of the dynamics of the system. However, if tray temperatures are used to estimate product compositions, then any disturbances on temperatures will immediately be reflected in the composition estimates.

If the estimates can be generated at a reasonable accuracy and at a fast enough frequency, then it can be used as the feedback signal to an automatic feedback controller. By reducing human involvement in the control loop, more consistent production can be achieved.

As a result of the above improvements, better process regulation can be achieved which also means that there will be increased scope for process optimisation. With better process regulation, the process operator's time will be better spent in carrying out higher level supervisory tasks

All these means that plant productivity is increased, leading to higher profitability.

Part of the SWOT Shop site