Air Flow Rate Control for a Compressor Using a Model-Predictive Control-Based Reduce Order Estimator

In this study, a model-prediction-controller (MPC)-based reduce order estimator is designed to regulate the outlet air flow rate of a centrifugal compressor. In general, measuring the compressor outlet air flow rate is costly. However, an estimation design method that properly estimates this air flow rate can reduce the sensor cost. The accuracy of our designed centrifugal compressor is validated through experimental data. The outlet air flow rate is estimated by reduce order estimation, which is necessary to control the desired air flow rate. In addition, a cost function is applied in this study. Our experiments yielded an estimated outlet air flow rate that is acceptable. In general, our MPC-based reduce order estimation proved robust and was regulated to achieve a desirable air flow rate.