Process control involves using computers or microprocessors to control industrial processes. There are three main types of process control: batch process control which combines specific amounts of raw materials together for a set time like making prepackaged meals; continuous process control which regulates uninterrupted processes like fuel production; and discrete process control which produces specific items through manufacturing applications like robotic assembly lines. Process control is used across many industries like oil refining, chemicals, food production, and automotive manufacturing.

2. Process Control
What is Process Control ?
- Process control is the use of computers or
microprocessors to control a process.
 Process control is used in oil refining, chemical
processing, car manufacturing, and
temperature control, as well as the food and
beverage industries.

3. There are three types of process control :-
1) Batch process control. This is used in processes
where specific amounts of raw materials are
combined together and mixed for a certain length of
time. An example is the manufacturing of food
products such as pre-packaged meals. The
ingredients are measured into a large vessel and
mixed together for a certain amount of time. They
are then heated to cook them. The amount of each
ingredient that is added is controlled by computer, as
is the length of time for each stage and the
temperature. Batch processes are generally used to
produce relatively small amount of product per year.

4. Example of Batch Control System
Manufacturing of food products

5. 2) Continuous process control. Often, a
physical system is represented through variables
that are smooth and uninterrupted in time. The
control of the water temperature in a heating
jacket, for example, is an example of continuous
process control. Some important continuous
processes are the production of fuels, chemicals
and plastics. Continuous processes in
manufacturing are used to produce very large
quantities of product per year (millions to
billions of pounds).

6. Example of control system of
a continuous stirred-tank reactor.

7. 3) Discrete process control. This is when
specific items are produced. Found in
many manufacturing, motion and
packaging applications. Robotic assembly,
such as that found in automotive
production, can be characterized as
discrete process control. Most discrete
manufacturing involves the production of
discrete pieces of product, such as metal
stamping.

8. Discrete process control such as the wheel
fitter