What does the integral term in a PID controller address?

The integral term in a PID controller specifically addresses the accumulation of past errors over time. This means that it integrates the error signal, which helps in correcting any persistent or steady-state errors that might not be eliminated by the proportional or derivative terms alone.

When the system's output does not reach the desired set point, the integral component accumulates this error over time, effectively summing all past error values. This cumulative effect allows the controller to respond to historical data to drive the system towards the set point more accurately. By taking into account the total accumulated error, the integral term helps to eliminate any offset that might exist, providing more precise control and ensuring that the output aligns closely with the desired target over time.

This is crucial in many processes where an ongoing deviation from the set point can lead to undesirable outcomes. The integration function helps maintain a balanced system by building up corrective action when errors remain over a certain duration, thus enhancing the overall stability and performance of the control loop.