Computer Control of a Particleboard Forming Machine

The development and implementation of an in-house, low cost computer control system for a particleboard forming machine is presented. The machine has no capability to automatically adjust the mat weight profile, but the mat weight is controlled using the coarse chip flow. The level in all forming station bins is controlled, as well as the fine chip mass flow rate. The Dahlin regulator is used on several loops to accommodate dead-time in the process. Results of 2 years of operation show that the standard deviation of board weight has decreased by a factor of 2. Simultaneously, a 5 percent production increase has resulted from the project. Total cost was $58,000 plus 6 man-months for software development; mill labor activities outside the interface cabinet were not included.

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