Process Variables and Signals

Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Compiled by
Engr. Myrna Anot- Cabrera
 What is a process variable ?
The process variable is a dynamic feature of
the process which may change rapidly. Accurate
measurement of process variables is important for the
maintenance of accuracy in a process.
Types of Process Variables:
• controlled variables - these are the variables which quantify
the performance or quality of the final product, which are also
called output variables.
• manipulated variables - these input variables are adjusted
dynamically to keep the controlled variables at their set-
points.
• disturbance variables - these are also called "load" variables
and represent input variables that can cause the controlled
variables to deviate from their respective set points.
 What are the process variables?
Flow: Any fluids or liquids flowing from one place to another
place is called flow and it is defined as volume per unit of
time at specified temperature and pressure .Conditions, is
generally measured by positive-displacement or rate meters.
Units: kg / hr, liter / min, gallon / min, m3 / hr, Nm3 / hr.

Pressure: It is defined as Force per unit Area. P = F/A

Units : bar, Pascal, kg / cm2, lb / in2.
What are the process variables?
Level: The height of the water column, liquid and powder etc., at
the desired measurement of height between minimum level
points to maximum level point is called level. The measurement
principle is, head pressure method.
Units: Meters, mm, cm, percentage.

Temperature: It is the degree of hotness or coldness of a body is

called temperature.
Units : Degree Centigrade, Degree Fahrenheit, Degree Kelvin,
Degree Rankin.

Quality: It deals with analysis.( pH, % CO2, % 02, Conductivity,

Viscosity )
 What is a signal?
Any kind of physical quantity that conveys information .

What are the signals?

What are the Signals ?
 Important terms
• Loop Diagram – Drawing that shows field device
installation details including wiring and the junction
box (if one is used) that connects the field device to the
control system.
• Closed loop control - Automatic regulation of a process
inputs based on a measurement of process output.
• Manual control – Plant operator adjustment of a
process input .
• Piping and Instrumentation Diagram – Drawing that
shows the instrumentation and piping details for plant
equipment.
• Tag number – Unique identifier that is assigned to a
field device.
Standard Symbols and Diagrams
Standard Symbols and Diagrams
Standard Symbols and Diagrams
 Standard Symbols and Diagrams
ISA ( INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF AUTOMATION) SYMBOLOGY
The International Society of Automation (www.isa.org) is a nonprofit professional association that sets the standard for those who apply
engineering and technology to improve the management, safety, and cybersecurity of modern automation and control systems used across
industry and critical infrastructure. Founded in 1945 .

DISCRETE COMPONENTS ( TRANSMITTERS, SENSORS, DETECTORS)

WITH DISPLAY AND SOME CONTROL ACTIONS

Standard Symbols and Diagrams

CONTROLLERS
Standard Symbols and Diagrams
ISA SYMBOLOGY
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1ST LETTER - The variable being measured (e.g.,

flow, pressure, temperature)

2ND LETTER - The device’s function (e.g.,

transmitter, switch, valve, sensor, indicator)

3RD LETTER - Some modifiers (e.g., high, low,

multifunction)
 ISA SYMBOLOGY
Tagging Convention: Fairly standardized in North America
and also used in Europe and Asia.
ISA SYMBOLOGY
ISA SYMBOLOGY
ISA SYMBOLOGY
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PIPING & INSTRUMENT DIAGRAM ( P & ID)
A Piping and Instrumentation Diagram - P&ID, is a
schematic illustration of functional relationship of
piping, instrumentation and system equipment
components. P&ID shows all of piping including
the physical sequence of branches, reducers,
valves, equipment, instrumentation and control
interlocks.

( ENGINEERING TOOLBOX .COM )

EXAMPLE OF P& ID
What is an instrument data sheet?
Instrument Data Sheet is a document containings pecification and
information of an instrument device.
What can be found in a data sheet?
 tag number identification
Service description
Location ( line number/equipment number)
P&ID number or drawing number reference
Process data ( if applicable)
Calibrated range ( if applicable)
Material
Performance details ( such as accuracy, linearity –if applicable)
Hazardous certification ( for electrical device)
Accessories required , etc
Sample P&ID diagrams with
Instrument Data sheet
Sample P&ID diagrams with
Instrument Data sheet
Unsafe Work Conditions
Unsafe Work Conditions