KBES FOR PROCESS-CONTROL OF NITRIFICATION IN ACTIVATED-SLUDGE PROCESS

Knowledge-based system technology has recently been introduced in acti vated sludge plant operations. A knowledge-based expert system (KBES) called ASPX (Activated Sludge Process Expert) is developed for nitrifi cation process control of a specific petroleum refinery activated slud ge plant. This knowledge based system has been created to diagnose and correct problems with the nitrification process using rule-based know ledge (heuristics), statistics, and a predictive mathematical model. T he knowledge base consists of rules for each of six process control pa rameters. For each parameter the process control-strategy is executed by the knowledge compiled in logic trees. Database functions such as d ata entry, statistical evaluation, and the simulation model for efflue nt ammonia concentration are also included. A user-friendly interface enables operators who are not familiar with computers to use all of th e program functions with little or no difficulty. The goal of the prog ram is to provide an inexperienced operator with the same problem solv ing capability as that of a senior operator with extensive practical e xperience.