The Instrumentation and Control System Design

Introduction

The Instrumentation and Control System Design course is crafted to prepare engineers and technical professionals for the process industry, oil & gas, power plants, and manufacturing sectors. It covers the selection, specification, and layout of instruments used for monitoring, measuring, and controlling industrial processes. The course includes practical exposure to control systems, PLCs, P&IDs, and DCS basics, alongside an understanding of international standards like ISA and IEC. Participants will gain both theoretical and practical knowledge, making them capable of executing and managing instrumentation projects with precision.

Modules and Content

Module 1: Basics of Instrumentation Engineering
  • Introduction to instrumentation systems
  • Types of process variables: pressure, temperature, flow, and level
  • Signal types: analog, digital, pneumatic, and electrica
  • Working principles and selection of sensors
  • Types of transducers used in industry
  • Calibration procedures and accuracy standards
  • Open loop vs closed loop systems
  • Control strategies (P, PI, PID)
  • Set point, control variables, and feedback mechanisms
  • Types of control valves and their characteristics
  • Pneumatic vs electric actuators
  • Positioners, converters, and solenoids
  • Introduction to PLC architecture
  • Ladder logic and I/O mapping
  • Overview of Distributed Control Systems (DCS)
  • Reading and preparing P&ID
  • Instrument loop diagrams and legends
  • Tagging conventions and drawing symbols
  • Criteria for selecting transmitters, gauges, and switches
  • Preparation of instrument index and datasheets
  • Vendor coordination and spec sheet review
  • Layout of control cabinets and junction boxes
  • Wiring diagrams and termination drawings
  • Cable schedules and gland plate design
  • Hook-up diagrams and impulse tubing
  • Mounting, calibration, and testing procedures
  • Safety standards and ATEX/IECEx zoning
  • HART, MODBUS, PROFIBUS, and FOUNDATION Fieldbus
  • Introduction to SCADA systems
  • Real-time monitoring and control integration
  • ISA, IEC, and ANSI instrumentation standards
  • Documentation and inspection checklists
  • Safety and SIL (Safety Integrity Level) concepts
  • Complete instrumentation design for a process plant unit
  • Deliverables: P&ID, loop diagrams, control panel layout
  • Presentation and report submission

Scope & Advantages

Instrumentation and Control professionals are in high demand across industries that rely on automation, safety, and precise process control. From oil refineries and chemical plants to pharmaceuticals, food processing, and power generation, the ability to design and manage control systems is a critical skill. This course empowers engineers to handle real-world challenges in instrumentation design, selection, installation, and maintenance, making them valuable contributors in any multidisciplinary engineering project.

Reference

  • “Piping Handbook” by Mohinder L. Nayyar ,
  • “Process Piping: The Complete Guide to ASME B31.3” by Charles Becht IV,
  • “Pipe Stress Engineering” by Liang-Chuan Peng and Tsen-Loong Peng
  • “Piping Design Handbook” by John J. McKetta Jr.
  • “The Planning Guide to Piping Design” by Richard Beale and David R. Sherwood