Optimal Reduction of the MSF Plant Model to the First or Second Order with Delay Forms

The linearized model of an MSF plant is large and complex in size, requiring reductions for controller design and practical implementation. This chapter includes a brief review of model reduction techniques. The need for modeling controlled processes in simple forms such as first order or second order with delay forms largely arises out of the widely prevailing PID control practice, with possibilities for advanced features such as optimization and adaptability. The case of our 18-stage MSF desalination plant model is subjected to the studies in this direction.