In computer process control, a digital computer is used to direct the operations of a manufacturing

process. Although other automated systems are typically controlled by computer, the term computer
process control is generally associated with continuous or semi-continuous production operations
involving materials such as chemicals, petroleum, foods, and certain basic metals. In these operations the
products are typically processed in gas, liquid, or powder form to facilitate flow of the material through
the various steps of the production cycle. In addition, these products are usually mass-produced. Because
of the ease of handling the product and the large volumes involved, a high level of automation has been
accomplished in these industries.
The modern computer process control system generally includes the following: (1) measurement of
important process variables such as temperature, flow rate, and pressure, (2) execution of
some optimizing strategy, (3) actuation of such devices as valves, switches, and furnaces that enable the
process to implement the optimal strategy, and (4) generation of reports to management indicating
equipment status, production performance, and product quality.

An example of computer process control in the metals industry is the rolling of hot metal ingots into final
shapes such as coils and strips. This was first done in the steel industry, but similar processing is also
accomplished with aluminum and other metals. In a modern steel plant, hot-rolling is performed under
computer control. The rolling process involves the forming of a large, hot metal billet by passing it through
a rolling mill consisting of one or more sets of large cylindrical rolls that squeeze the metal and reduce its
cross section. Several passes are required to reduce the ingot gradually to the desired thickness. Sensors
and automatic instruments measure the dimensions and temperature of the ingot after each pass through
the rolls, and the control computer calculates and regulates the roll settings for the next pass.