Method for optimizing the cord guide of a continuous casting machine, in particular a plate casting machine or a continuous billet casting machine

Description

1 / 20 METHOD FOR OPTIMIZING THE CORD GUIDE OF A CONTINUOUS CASTING MACHINE, IN PARTICULAR A CONTINUOUS CASTING MACHINE Slabs or a continuous billet casting machine

[001] The invention relates to a method for optimizing the cord guide of a continuous casting machine, in particular a slab casting machine or a continuous billet casting machine. The invention further relates to a computer program comprising commands which, when a computer is running the program, cause it to execute the method according to the invention.

[002] Continuous casting is a method for the continuous production of semi-finished metallurgical products, such as plates or billets. However, special profiles, such as round roughs and beams, or flat or polygonal profiles, can also be cast. Non-ferrous metals (NF metals) and their alloys, steel and iron alloys, or heavy metals and their alloys can be cast using a continuous casting method.

[003] Continuous casting is a continuous method in which liquid metal is poured through a cooled, bottomless mold. The formation of the bead coating (semi-finished product coating) begins inside the mold and is then conveyed to the mold by a bead guide. The molten bead is then further cooled with water inside the bead guide until it solidifies completely.

[004] A cord guide suitable for reliably guiding the cord generally comprises a relatively large number of individual cord guide segments that interact closely as a guide, with guide and / or drive rollers that are arranged in a loose-sided and fixed-sided structure and that together form what is referred to as a roller mat. The rollers may be continuous, but may also be temporarily mounted in the case of comparatively large cord widths. The rollers on the fixed and loose sides have Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, p. 9 / 34 2 / 20 different diameters in sections at a distance from the casting level in the mold, while opposite pairs of rollers generally have the same diameter. The individual segments of the cord guide comprise a support structure for the support and guide rollers, the support structure being, in turn, mounted on a solid base such as concrete, steel, reinforced concrete or similar.

[005] Even a slight misalignment between individual segments of the weld bead guide can lead to surface and / or internal defects in the conveyed weld. The resulting plates, billets, or similar components of the conveyed weld cannot, for example, be processed immediately due to surface and / or internal defects, but may instead have to be manually reworked using time-consuming and expensive finishing processes such as grinding and / or scarifying. However, it is also possible that the defects in the weld bead are so severe that manual rework is insufficient and the defective plates or similar components are rejected. Furthermore, incorrect alignment between the segments of the weld bead guide can also lead to damage to the components of the weld bead guide.Therefore, it is essential that the transitions between the segments of the cord guide, as well as the orientation within the individual segments, follow the best possible path to avoid damage to the cord coating.

[006] The verification of the weld bead guide of a continuous casting machine using what is known as a roller clearance tester, in order to reduce weld bead damage caused by imprecise transitions of weld bead guide segments, is known in the state of the art. The roller clearance tester is moved through the weld bead guide, simultaneously detecting the distances between the rollers of the weld bead guide, in particular the loose side and the fixed side of the weld bead guide, and the freedom of movement of the rollers. Imprecise transitions between segments, stiff rollers or increased wear of the roller body Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, p. 10 / 34 3 / 20 within a segment are identified based on measurement data detected by the roller clearance tester. Cord guide elements identified in this way as potentially causing damage are repaired through appropriate maintenance measures or replaced for repair. However, the evaluation of measurement data from the roller clearance tester is usually performed manually and therefore largely depends on the experience of the responsible employee. Furthermore, inaccuracies between segment transitions or caused by rigid rollers within a segment have a different influence on different semi-finished products transported by the cord guide. For example, an inaccurate segment transition may not be problematic for one semi-finished product, while an inaccurate segment transition may be problematic for another semi-finished product.This depends, for example, on quality requirements, subsequent processing, the alloy / composition of the semi-finished product, or comparable variables. However, the evaluation of the roller clearance tester measurement data is performed independently of the semi-finished product actually being transported, referring only to the identification of inaccuracies in the cord guide, without direct reference to the semi-finished product being transported.

[007] It is therefore an objective of the present invention to optimize the cord guide of a continuous casting machine, taking into account, in particular, the semi-finished product being transported.

[008] The objective is achieved according to the invention by a method for optimizing the cord guide of a continuous casting machine, in particular a plate casting machine or a billet continuous casting machine, comprising the steps of: detect the status of the cord guide machine; to assess the detected machine state in order to determine Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 11 / 34 4 / 20 the influence of the machine's condition on a semi-finished product, particularly on the coating of the semi-finished product, which is transported on the cord guide; Identify adjustments to the cord guide based on an assessment of the machine's condition, in order to reduce the influence of the machine's condition on the semi-finished product being transported in the cord guide; and implement the identified adjustments to the cord guide.

[009] According to the method according to the invention, the machine state of the cord guide is measured in a first step. For this purpose, test devices known in the state of the art are used, in particular roller clearance testers and / or spray nozzle testers. These test devices are moved through an empty cord guide and measure, for example, parameters of the cord guide rollers (roller clearance tester) or spray nozzles (spray nozzle tester). According to the state of the art, the data thus detected are searched to find conspicuous measurement data regarding the machine state of the cord guide and the corresponding areas of the cord guide are adjusted accordingly.In contrast, according to the invention, the detected machine state is first evaluated to determine the precise influence of the machine state on a semi-finished product, particularly on the coating of the semi-finished product, which is transported in the cord guide. Thus, it is not simply a matter of seeking conspicuous measurement data, but of determining the actual influence of the detected machine state on the semi-finished product transported in the cord guide. Then, according to the invention, adjustments to the cord guide are identified based on the evaluation of the machine state in order to reduce the influence of the machine state on the semi-finished product transported in the cord guide. The actual cause of the influence of... Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 12 / 34 5 / 20 The condition of the machine in the transported semi-finished product is thus identified, and this identified cause is reduced or completely avoided through specific adjustments to the cord guide. The adjustments to the cord guide thus identified are then made so that the negative influence of the cord guide on the transported semi-finished product is reduced or avoided.

[010] According to a variant of the invention, the machine state of the cord guide refers to one or more of the following parameters: distance between two segment rollers, in particular the loose side and the fixed side, rotation capacity of the segment rollers, change in angle between two segment rollers, in particular on the loose side and / or fixed side, or similar. In particular, it is essential to maintain a defined distance between the segment rollers on the loose side and the fixed side, with the distance between the segment rollers on the loose side and the fixed side reduced along the transport direction of the cord guide, in order to accommodate the continuous shrinkage of the coating of the semi-finished product.Due to cooling, the coating of the semi-finished product shrinks along the direction of conveying the cord guide (thermal shrinkage), and in order to ensure reliable guidance, the distance between the segment rollers on the loose side and the fixed side is reduced along the direction of conveying the cord guide.

[011] According to a convenient variant of the invention, the semi-finished product is a plate or a rod.

[012] In an advantageous variant of the invention, the detected machine state assessment determines a load on the semi-finished product, in particular on the coating of the semi-finished product, as a result of the machine state, and the adjustments identified in the cord guide reduce the load determined by the assessment. The influence of the machine state according to the invention is preferably a load on the product. Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 13 / 34 6 / 20 semi-finished product transported on the cord guide. The load is related, in particular, to the coating of the semi-finished product, which leads to what is referred to as deformation of the cord coating. The method according to the invention thus preferably determines the load caused by the machine state on the transported semi-finished product, in particular on the coating of the semi-finished product. Unpermissible loads on the semi-finished product, in particular on the coating of the semi-finished product, are therefore avoided or reduced by the method according to the invention.

[013] According to a variant of the invention, the load refers to a state of deformation and / or stress of the semi-finished product, in particular of the coating of the semi-finished product, and the adjustments identified in the cord guide prevent a maximum permissible state of deformation and / or stress of the semi-finished product from being exceeded.

[014] According to another variant of the invention, the state of a secondary cooling system of the cord guide is detected, wherein the detected state of the secondary cooling system is taken into account when evaluating, identifying and making adjustments. As part of the process of detecting the status of the secondary cooling system of the cord guide, the status of the individual nozzles of the secondary cooling system is detected in particular. Acoustic sensors or membrane sensors, for example, are used to detect the state of the nozzles.

[015] In a preferred variant of the invention, the method comprises the step of cleaning the detected data in relation to the machine state and / or the state of the secondary cooling system. Data cleaning is preferably performed after detection but before evaluation. Data cleaning serves to identify conspicuous measured values ​​and correct or eliminate them. Conspicuous measured values ​​are, for example, Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 14 / 34 7 / 20 incorrect measurements caused, for example, by external influences on the cord guide or by faulty subsequent processing of the measurement signals. A deviation that corrects the position of measurement data detected within the cord guide may also be taken into account. An incorrect assignment of measured values ​​to positions in the cord guide may occur due to errors in the detection of the measured values. This incorrect assignment is corrected by the deviation, the deviation related, for example, to length information or information relating to the cord guide, such as + / - 1 for X rolls.

[016] According to an advantageous variant of the invention, cleaning is performed manually and / or automatically, in particular based on an algorithm. The algorithm can, for example, provide the user with suggestions for corrections that are evaluated by the user and accepted or rejected. The algorithm can improve its future predictions (self-learning algorithm) based on the user's decisions.

[017] In an advantageous variant, the method according to the invention comprises the step of visualizing the detected state of the machine and / or the state of the secondary cooling system to the cord guide operators. Visualizing the detected state of the machine has the advantage of allowing operators, especially maintenance personnel, to quickly and reliably identify critical cord guide components, for example, to implement identified adjustments. The visualization can also be used by development engineers or metallurgists, for example, in the development of a new continuous casting machine or in the operation of a comparable continuous casting machine.

[018] According to a convenient variant of the invention, the detected data are visualized in a positionally precise manner with respect to the state of the machine and / or the state of the secondary cooling system in a virtual model of the guide. Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 15 / 34 8 / 20 cord. This significantly simplifies determining the location within the cord guide. The cord guide is part of a metallurgical production machine where there are typically harsh environments such as heat, dirt, and noise. Furthermore, the cord guide extends many meters horizontally and vertically. Therefore, it is advantageous to visualize the exact position of conspicuous measurement data and, in particular, the adjustments to be made to the cord guide as accurately as possible in advance, so that operators can locate the position on the actual cord guide as quickly as possible in the case of manual adjustments to the cord guide.

[019] According to a convenient variant of the invention, the visualization comprises two parallel diagrams, wherein the detected state of the machine and / or the state of the secondary cooling system is shown in a first diagram and the virtual model of the cord guide is shown in a second diagram, wherein the selection of a data set of the detected state of the machine and / or the state of the secondary cooling system optically indicates the associated position in the model of the cord guide. A diagram in the optics of the invention is a graph, in particular a graphical representation of data, facts or information.

[020] In a variant of the invention, the visualization additionally visualizes the influences of the cord guide on the transported semi-finished product, particularly when the deformation limits are locally exceeded in the coating of the semi-finished product. The visualization thus also includes information from the detected machine condition assessment. When the deformation limits are exceeded in the coating of the semi-finished product transported in the cord guide, deformations occur in the cord coating that negatively influence the quality of the semi-finished product and should therefore be avoided. Using the visualization of Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 16 / 34 9 / 20 According to the invention, it is possible to quickly, easily and reliably identify which areas of the cord guide have a specific influence on the transported semi-finished product. Therefore, it is preferable to indicate which area, which segment or even which component (e.g., one or more rollers) of the cord guide has a specific influence, in particular what the exact load is (e.g., exceeding the deformation limits), on the semi-finished product.

[021] According to a further variant of the invention, the identification of adjustments in the cord guide is carried out in an automated manner, in particular by means of an algorithm. The algorithm is, in particular, a self-learning algorithm and is based, for example, on artificial intelligence, a neural network, a numerical method or similar.

[022] According to a preferred variant of the invention, adjustments to the cord guide refer to one or more of the following actions: replacement of individual cord guide segments, shimming of adjacent cord guide segments, configuration of secondary cooling nozzles, adjustment of roller rotation capacity, or comparable adjustments. Replacing individual cord guide segments requires interrupting production; therefore, this adjustment of the cord guide is considered only in cases of serious impacts on the semi-finished product being transported in the cord guide. However, since regular maintenance intervals are planned, the segments to be replaced at the next maintenance interval can be identified and preparatory measures initiated in accordance with the invention. When there are less serious impacts on the semi-finished product or in the period preceding the replacement of cord guide segments, adjacent segments can be shimmed.During paving, the alignment of adjacent segments is adjusted to ensure the smoothest possible transition. For this purpose, Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 17 / 34 10 / 20 for example, the support points of the segment structures can be adjusted in their alignment, in particular they can be adjustable in height. By adjusting individual support points separately, the alignment of an individual segment of the cord guide can be adjusted and aligned with the adjacent segment.

[023] In a variant according to the invention, the adjustments identified in the cord guide are performed automatically or partially automatically after manual approval. The adjustments may, for example, be suggested automatically and approved manually by an operator. However, the adjustments may also be implemented fully automatically without prior manual approval, the fully automatic adjustments referring, for example, to mechanical / electronic adjustments in the cord guide, such as drive speeds. The manually approved adjustments may be subsequently evaluated, for example, using self-learning algorithms, in order to optimize the suggested adjustments.

[024] According to a variant of the invention, the method further comprises modifying the continuous casting process in order to avoid influences from the bead guide on the transported semi-finished product. For example, the upstream casting process can be adjusted to avoid negative influences from the bead guide. For example, with a slower casting process, the coating of the semi-finished product therefore has more time to grow in the mold, which can reduce subsequent negative influences from the bead guide. However, the specifications of the other processes must also be taken into account so that they can be performed correctly.

[025] According to a convenient variant of the invention, the method comprises the step of determining a producible cord quality (e.g., steel type) after making the adjustments identified in the cord guide. The determination here Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 18 / 34 11 / 20 takes into account the cord coating deformation identified through evaluation, as well as process data and continuous casting machine temperatures, particularly the cord guide. This information can be transmitted to higher-level and / or downstream processes. Based on this, for example, the further processing of the semi-finished product can be determined, for instance, whether the semi-finished product is suitable for the intended further processing or not.

[026] In a variant according to the invention, the identification of adjustments in the cord guide additionally takes into account process data from the cord guide. These include, for example, technical specifications of the cord guide, such as allowable loads, speeds, hydraulic adjustment of the segments, or temperatures, in particular the melting temperature.

[027] According to an advantageous variant of the invention, the method further comprises the step of detecting damage on the surface of the semi-finished product transported after the cord guide and feeding back the detected information to optimize the assessment of the detected machine condition. The assessment concerning the influence of the machine condition on a semi-finished product transported in the cord guide can therefore be optimized by comparison with the damage detected on the surface of the semi-finished product. It is thus verified whether the detected damage corresponds to the cord guide influences identified during the assessment.

[028] According to a convenient variant, the method according to the invention comprises the step of measuring temperatures in the cord guide and taking into account the measured temperatures when evaluating the detected machine state and identifying adjustments in the cord guide.

[029] The objective is further achieved according to the invention by a computer program comprising commands which, when Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, p. 19 / 34 12 / 20 a computer is running the program, causing it to execute the method according to the invention.

[030] The invention is explained in more detail below, using exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, in which: Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a continuous casting machine with an associated cord guide; Fig. 2 shows a flowchart according to a first embodiment of the method according to the invention for optimizing the weld bead guide of a continuous casting machine; Fig. 3 shows a flowchart according to a second embodiment of the method according to the invention for optimizing the weld bead guide of a continuous casting machine; Fig. 4 shows a display of a detected machine state; Fig. 5 shows a visualization of influences on the semi-finished product transported in a cord guide, and Fig. 6 shows a visualization according to Fig. 5, showing the effects of the wedging of the cord guide segments.

[031] Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a continuous casting machine 1 with an associated bead guide 2. The continuous casting machine 1 shown in Fig. 1 comprises a pouring ladle 3 containing a melt 4 (liquid metal). The melt 4 is delivered to a mold 6 via an intermediate vessel 5. The intermediate vessel 5 provides a buffer volume to ensure continuous casting, for example, during a change of the pouring ladle. The melt 4 is delivered to the mold 6, where the mold 6 is cooled. The formation of what is referred to as the bead coating (semi-finished product coating) of the semi-finished product 7 (cast bead) begins within the mold 6.

[032] Cord guide 2 is arranged downstream of mold 6 Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, p. 20 / 34 13 / 20 to further transport the semi-finished product 7. The semi-finished product 7 is additionally cooled with water inside the cord guide 2 until the cord is completely solidified. Cooling inside the mold 6 is referred to here as primary cooling and cooling inside the cord guide 2 as secondary cooling.

[033] The cord guide generally comprises a relatively large number of individual cord guide segments 8 that interact closely as a guide, with guide and / or drive rollers arranged in a loose-sided and fixed-sided structure that together form what is referred to as a roller mat. The rollers may be continuous, but may also be temporarily mounted in the case of relatively large cord widths. The rollers on the fixed and loose sides have different diameters in sections at a distance from the casting level in the mold 6, while opposite pairs of rollers generally have the same diameter. Fig. 1 shows a curved cord guide 2 with vertical and horizontal sections, starting at the vertical section under the mold 6 and extending to the horizontal outlet 9. The individual segments 8 of the cord guide 2 comprise a support structure for the support and guide rollers, the support structure being, in turn, fixedly mounted.

[034] Even a small deviation between the individual segments 8 of the cord guide 2 can lead to quality problems in the transported semi-finished product 7. The resulting plates, billets or similar from the transported semi-finished product 7 cannot, for example, be processed immediately due to surface defects, but must instead be reworked manually using time-consuming and expensive finishing work, such as grinding and / or scarifying. However, it is also possible that the quality defects in the semi-finished product are so severe that manual rework is insufficient and the defective plates or Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 21 / 34 14 / 20 similar items are rejected. Furthermore, incorrect alignment between the 8 segments of the cord guide 2 can also lead to damage to the components of the cord guide 2. Therefore, it is essential that the transitions between the 8 segments of the cord guide 2, as well as the orientation within the individual 8 segments, are as precise as possible to avoid damage to the cord coating.

[035] To avoid the aforementioned disadvantages, the present invention discloses a method 10 for optimizing the cord guide 2 of a continuous casting machine 1, in particular a plate casting machine or a continuous billet casting machine.

[036] Fig. 2 shows a flowchart according to a first embodiment of method 10 according to the invention for optimizing the cord guide 2 of a continuous casting machine 1. The machine state of the cord guide 2 is detected 11 in a first step of method 10 according to the invention. The machine state of the cord guide 2 refers, in particular, to one or more of the following parameters: distance between two segment rolls, in particular the loose side and the fixed side, rotation capacity of the segment rolls, angle change between two segment rolls, in particular on the loose side and / or the fixed side, or similar. The detection 11 of the machine state may also include the state of a secondary cooling system of the cord guide 2, the detected state 11 of the secondary cooling system being taken into account in the following steps of method 10 according to the invention.The state of the secondary cooling system can be detected 11, for example, by means of acoustic sensors, membrane sensors or other sensors.

[037] The detected machine state is evaluated in a second step of method 10 according to the invention. Evaluation 12 determines the influence of the machine state on a product. Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 22 / 34 15 / 20 semi-finished product 7 transported on the cord guide 2, in particular on the coating of the semi-finished product. The semi-finished product 7 is, for example, a plate or a billet. The assessment 12 of the detected machine state determines, in particular, a load on the semi-finished product 7, in particular on the coating of the semi-finished product, through the machine state. A load on the coating of the semi-finished product can lead to deformation of the cord coating. The load is related, in particular, to a state of deformation and / or stress of the semi-finished product 7, in particular of the coating of the semi-finished product.

[038] Adjustments to the cord guide 2 based on machine state assessment 12 are identified 13 in a third step of method 10 according to the invention, in order to reduce the influence of the machine state on the semi-finished product 7 that is transported in the cord guide 2. The adjustments identified 13 in the cord guide 2 reduce, in particular, the load on the semi-finished product 7 transported in the cord guide 2, optionally determined by means of assessment 12. The adjustments identified 13 in the cord guide 2 preferably prevent a maximum permissible stress and / or deformation state of the semi-finished product 7 from being exceeded herein. The identification 13 of adjustments in the cord guide 2 is preferably carried out in an automated manner, in particular by means of an algorithm. The algorithm is, in particular, a self-learning algorithm, artificial intelligence, a neural network or similar.The adjustments identified 13 in the guide cord 2 refer, for example, to one or more of the following actions: replacement of individual segments 8 of the guide cord 2, shimming of adjacent segments 8 of the guide cord 2, adjustment of secondary cooling nozzles, adjustment of the rotation capacity of the rollers or comparable adjustments. The identification 13 of adjustments in the guide cord 2 may additionally take into account process data from the guide cord 2. Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, p. 23 / 34 16 / 20

[039] Optionally, temperatures in the cord guide 2 may be additionally measured, with the subsequently measured temperatures being taken into account in the assessment 12 of the detected machine state 11 and in the identification 13 of adjustments in the cord guide 2.

[040] The adjustments identified 13 in the cord guide 2 are performed 14 in a fourth and final step of the method 10 according to the invention. The adjustments identified 13 in the cord guide 2 are performed 14 automatically or partially automatically after manual approval. Manual approval can, for example, be used to improve self-learning algorithms, so that the self-learning algorithm subsequently suggests adjustments that are very likely to be performed 14.

[041] A subsequent extension of method 10 according to the invention relates to the step of detecting damage on the surface of the semi-finished product 7 transported after the cord guide 2 and feeding back the detected information to optimize the assessment 12 of the detected machine state.

[042] Fig. 3 shows a flowchart according to a second embodiment of method 10 according to the invention for optimizing the cord guide 2 of a continuous casting machine 1. According to the second embodiment, method 10 according to the invention comprises the additional step of cleaning 15 the detected data relating to the machine state and / or the state of the secondary cooling system. Cleaning 15 is performed before evaluating 12 the detected machine state. Cleaning 15 takes into account, for example, a deviation and / or identifies incorrect measurements which are corrected or eliminated. Cleaning 15 is performed manually and / or automatically, in particular based on an algorithm.

[043] The second embodiment of method 10 according to the invention in Fig. 3 further comprises the additional step of Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 24 / 34 17 / 20 visualization 16 of the detected machine and / or secondary cooling system status 11 for the cord guide operators 2. This facilitates the identification of problematic areas of the cord guide. Visualization 16 can also be used by development engineers or metallurgists, for example, in the development of a new continuous casting machine 1 or in the operation of a comparable continuous casting machine 1. The detected data 11 are conveniently and accurately visualized in relation to the machine status and / or the secondary cooling system status in a virtual model of the cord guide 2.Visualization 16 with two parallel diagrams is particularly advantageous, with the detected machine state and / or secondary cooling system state 11 shown in a first diagram and the virtual model of the weld bead guide 2 presented in a second diagram, the selection of a dataset of the detected machine state and / or secondary cooling system state 11 optically indicating the associated position in the weld bead guide 2 model. Visualization 16 can additionally visualize the influences of the weld bead guide 2 on the transported semi-finished product 7, particularly when deformation limits are locally exceeded in the coating of the semi-finished product 7. Visualization 16 can therefore also include information from the evaluation 12 of the detected machine state 11 (dashed arrow in Fig. 3). Visualization 16 can be used to help a user decide whether the identified adjustments 13 should actually be made (dashed arrow in Fig. 4).3).

[044] Method 10 according to the invention may further comprise modifying the continuous casting process in order to avoid influences of the cord guide 2 on the transported semi-finished product 7. For example, casting parameters, such as the casting speed, are adjusted herein. Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 25 / 34 18 / 20

[045] An optional additional step of method 10 according to the invention is to determine the quality of the producible cord after performing 14 the adjustments identified 13 in the cord guide 2, in particular the type of steel producible.

[046] Fig. 4 shows a visualization of a detected machine state of a cord guide 2. In the upper area, visualization 16 shows a first diagram 17 representing the detected machine state 11. The spacing of the rollers within a cord guide 2 is shown here, with the first diagram 17 showing a first curve 19 for the gap between the rollers on the fixed and loose sides at a specific point in time. The second curve 20 also shows the aforementioned gap for a second point in time. The upper limit 21 and the lower limit 22 of the allowed gaps are also shown in the first diagram 17. A second diagram 18, showing a virtual model of the cord guide 2, is presented in the lower area of ​​visualization 16. The individual segments 8 of the cord guide 2 are shown in Fig. 4.

[047] Fig. 5 shows a visualization 16 of influences on the semi-finished product 7 transported in a cord guide 2. The influences of the cord guide 2 on the semi-finished product 7 transported in the cord guide 2 are shown in the first upper diagram 17 in Fig. 5. Curve 23 shows the stress in the coating of the semi-finished product here. In addition, an allowable deformation of the cord coating is also shown in the first diagram 17 as curve 24. A second diagram 18, which shows a virtual model of the cord guide 2 with the associated individual segments 8, is shown in the lower area of ​​visualization 16. As can be seen directly from visualization 16 in Fig. 5, the deformation 23 of the coating of the semi-finished product in the region between the second and third segments 8 of the cord guide 2 exceeds the allowable deformation 24 of the cord coating. According to the method Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 26 / 34 19 / 20 according to invention 10, the transition between the second and third segments 8 of the cord guide 2 would be adjusted to reduce the identified deformation 23 in the coating of the semi-finished product. This can be achieved by wedging the second and third segments 8 of the cord guide 2, i.e., optimizing their alignment with each other, in order to reduce the deformation 23 in the coating of the semi-finished product, so that the permissible deformation of the cord coating 24 is not exceeded.

[048] Fig. 6 shows a visualization 16 according to Fig. 6, additionally visualizing the effects of the wedging of the second and third segments 8. The second diagram 18 of Fig. 6 additionally shows the support points 25 of the individual segments 8. These support points 25 are adjustable in order to adjust the alignment of the individual segments 8. By adjusting the support points 25 of the second and third segments 8 of the cord guide 2 from the second diagram 18 of Fig. 6, these can be wedged, i.e., the alignment of the second and third segments 8 of the cord guide 2 is adjusted. Through optimization, the stress on the coating of the semi-finished product 7 transported in the cord guide 2 can be reduced. This is illustrated by the dashed area 26 in the first diagram 17 of Fig. 6. List of reference numerals Continuous casting machine Cord guide Leakage shell Cast iron Intermediate container (buffer volume) Mold Semi-finished product Segments (cord guide) Exit Method Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 27 / 34 20 / 20 Machine status detection (cord guide) Machine status assessment Identification of adjustments (cord guide) Execution of identified adjustments Clearing of detected data Visualization of machine status Second diagram (visualization) First diagram (visualization) Gap (fixed side) Gap (loose side) Upper limit (gap) Lower limit (gap) Stress on the coating of the semi-finished product Allowable deformation of the cord coating Support points (segments) Reduced stress (coating of the semi-finished product) Petition 870250113986, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 28 / 34

Claims

1 / 5 CLAIMS 1. Method (10) for optimizing the cord guide (2) of a continuous casting machine (1), in particular a plate casting machine or a continuous billet casting machine, comprising the steps of: detecting (11) the machine state of the cord guide (2); evaluating (12) the detected machine state (11) to determine the influence of the machine state on a semi-finished product (7), in particular on the coating of the semi-finished product, which is carried in the cord guide (2); identifying (13) adjustments in the cord guide (2) based on the evaluation (12) of the machine state, in order to reduce the influence of the machine state on the semi-finished product (7) which is carried in the cord guide (2); and performing (14) the identified adjustments (13) in the cord guide (2), characterized in that the machine state of the cord guide (2) refers to the transitions between segments of the cord guide (2).

2. Method (10), according to claim 1, characterized in that the state of the cord guide machine (2) refers to one or more of the following parameters: distance between two segment rollers, in particular the loose side and the fixed side, rotation capacity of the segment rollers, state of the bearings of the segment rollers, state of the spray nozzles, wear of the segment rollers, position of the loose side of the segment, pressures of the hydraulic cylinders, change of angle between two segment rollers, in particular on the loose side and / or on the fixed side, or similar.

3. Method (10), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the semi-finished product (7) is a plate or a billet.

4. Method (10), according to any of the Petition 870250113974, of 11 / 12 / 2025, page 9 / 20 2 / 5 claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the assessment (12) of the detected machine state (11) determines a load on the semi-finished product (7), in particular on the coating of the semi-finished product, as a result of the machine state, and the identified adjustments (13) on the cord guide (2) reduce the load determined by means of the assessment (12).

5. Method (10), according to claim 4, characterized in that the load refers to a state of deformation and / or stress of the semi-finished product (7), in particular of the semi-finished product casing, and the identified adjustments (13) in the cord guide (2) prevent a maximum allowable state of deformation and / or stress of the semi-finished product from being exceeded.

6. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the state of a secondary cooling system of the cord guide (2) is additionally detected, wherein the detected state of the secondary cooling system is taken into account when evaluating (12) and identifying (13) and performing (14) adjustments.

7. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it further comprises the cleaning step (15) of the detected data (11) in relation to the state of the machine and / or the state of the secondary cooling system.

8. Method (10), according to claim 7, characterized in that the cleaning (15) takes into account a deviation from the data and / or identifies incorrect measurements and corrects or deletes the incorrect measurements.

9. Method (10), according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the cleaning (15) is performed manually and / or automatically, in particular based on an algorithm.

10. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises Petition 870250113974, of 11 / 12 / 2025, page 10 / 20 3 / 5 the visualization step (16) of the detected machine state (11) and / or the state of the secondary cooling system for the cord guide operators (2).

11. Method (10), according to claim 10, characterized in that the detected data (11) are visualized (16) in a positionally precise manner with respect to the state of the machine and / or the state of the secondary cooling system in a virtual model of the cord guide (2).

12. Method (10), according to claim 11, characterized in that the visualization (16) comprises two parallel diagrams, wherein the detected machine state and / or secondary cooling system state (11) are shown in a first diagram and the virtual model of the cord guide (2) is shown in a second diagram, wherein the selection of a data set of the detected machine state and / or secondary cooling system state (11) optically indicates the associated position in the model of the cord guide (2).

13. Method (10), according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the visualization (16) additionally visualizes the influences of the cord guide (2) on the transported semi-finished product (7), in particular where the deformation limits are exceeded locally in the coating of the semi-finished product (7).

14. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the identification (13) of adjustments in the cord guide (2) is carried out in an automated manner, in particular by means of an algorithm.

15. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the adjustments in the cord guide (2) relate to one or more of the following actions: replacement of individual segments (8) of the cord guide (2), shim of adjacent segments (8) of the cord guide (2), configuration of secondary cooling nozzles, Petition 870250113974, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 11 / 20 4 / 5 adjustment of the rotation capacity of the rollers or comparable adjustments.

16. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the adjustments identified in the cord guide (2) are performed (14) automatically or partially automatically after manual approval.

17. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that it further comprises modifying the continuous casting process in order to avoid influences of the cord guide (2) on the transported semi-finished product (7).

18. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that it further comprises the step of determining a producible cord quality after making the adjustments identified (13) in the cord guide (2).

19. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the identification (13) of the adjustments in the cord guide (2) additionally takes into account the process data of the cord guide (2).

20. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that it further comprises the step of detecting damage on the surface of the transported semi-finished product (7) after the cord guide (2) and feeding back the detected information to optimize the assessment (12) of the detected machine state (11).

21. Method (10), according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that it further comprises the step of measuring temperatures in the cord guide (2) and taking into account the measured temperatures when evaluating (12) the detected machine state and identifying (13) adjustments in the cord guide (2). Petition 870250113974, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 12 / 20 5 / 5 22. Computer program, characterized in that it comprises commands that, when a computer is executing the program, cause it to execute method (10) as defined in any of claims 1 to 21. Petition 870250113974, dated 11 / 12 / 2025, page 13 / 20

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