Design of Food Process Controls Systems

Design of food process controls includes the specification of sensors, actuators, controllers, software, and networks that must be fully compatible and integrated into a working system. This process control system must have real benefits for the enterprise to justify the costs. Many in the food industry think of process automation as a luxury that can only be justified by the largest processors. However, even small, self-contained systems purchased directly from a manufacturer typically have automatic controls installed. Process controls, automatic controls, and automation are similar terms that are commonly used interchangeably.