In a textbook on process controls, I read that when tuning a controller there must be a balance between performance and excessive control element cycling. My question is, what corresponds excessive cycling?
To narrow down the question, assume we have a control valve with linear characteristics. What is the minimum time the controller should take to move the valve 5% of the controller output? For a typical set point change, how many cycles (up and down) of the valve are too much prior to reaching the final valve position?
I suspect there is a process specific part of the answer (minimize disturbance, smooth operation criteria), but what I am after is: what is too much cycling to avoid damaging the valve itself or to prolong the valves lifetime?