Rolling mill for solid elongated products

Abstract

The invention relates to a rolling mill (1) for solid elongated products defining a rolling axis (X), comprising a first group of rolling stations (100) and a second group of rolling stations (200). Each rolling station comprises: a carrying structure; a rolling stand box with three rollers removable along a removal direction (Y), the three rollers being movable in a radial direction and rotatable around a respective rotation axis among three rotation axes at 120° from each other, one of the rollers having its rotation axis in a vertical direction; a system for the synchronous mechanical adjustment of all the three rollers mounted on the rolling stand box; means for operating the synchronous mechanical adjustment system adapted to engage the synchronous mechanical adjustment system by engagement along a coupling direction (Z); three groups of gear motors connected to the rollers through a single extension.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a rolling mill for solid, slender products (e.g., bars / rods or wire rods).

[0002] Advantageously, the rolling mill of the present invention is particularly designed for finishing rolling. Existing technology

[0003] For many years, multi-cage rolling mills with motorized rolls have been used to longitudinally roll solid, slender products.

[0004] A multi-cage rolling mill comprises multiple rolling stations arranged in series along the rolling axis. Each rolling station includes multiple rolling rolls inserted into a roll-holder cartridge or cage.

[0005] Although designs with two or four rolls have been proposed, each cage typically has three rolls. Operationally, the position of each roll in each cage can be adjusted by changing the radial distance of each roll from the rolling axis, so that the rolling action can be varied according to the diameter to be obtained on the slender product being processed.

[0006] The term "finish rolling" is used in this article to refer to the process in the steel industry of longitudinally rolling a slender semi-finished product (e.g., bar or wire) to achieve its final dimensions using rolls. This process inherently results in a reduction in the size of the semi-finished product until it reaches its nominal value.

[0007] As is well known, rolling mill rolls are prone to wear and damage and must be replaced regularly. Therefore, convenient roll replacement is crucial in the operation and management of rolling mills.

[0008] Typically, in multi-cage rolling mills, the corresponding cage must first be removed from the mill structure when changing rolls.

[0009] Typically, multi-cage rolling mills are configured to remove the cage laterally, i.e., by moving the cage perpendicular to the rolling axis.

[0010] Multi-cage rolling mills that allow lateral removal of all cages from the same side of the mill are known. Lateral removal of all cages from the same side of the mill is highly advantageous, as it simplifies the logistics of managing the cages themselves.

[0011] Figure 1 and Figure 2An example of a multi-cage rolling mill is shown, in which all cages are removed from the same side.

[0012] Specifically, the mill generally comprises four or five cages arranged in series along the rolling axis. Each cage S has three rolls R1, R2, and R3, which are evenly distributed about 120° apart from each other around the rolling axis X. One of these three rolls, R1, has a horizontal axis of rotation. The rolls of the odd-numbered cages rotate 60° relative to the even-numbered cages about the rolling axis to roll the material on the portion of the product that was not affected by the rolls in the previous cage, using the grooved bottom of the respective roll. In this configuration, the odd-numbered cages rotate about the horizontal axis relative to the even-numbered cages. Each roll has its own adjusting actuators A1, A2, and A3, particularly hydraulic type adjusting actuators, which are mounted on the fixed structure F of the mill. The purpose of actuators A1, A2, and A3 is to adjust the radial distance of each roll from the rolling axis so that the rolling action can be varied according to the diameter to be obtained on the slender product being processed. The actuators are radially aligned with the corresponding rolls, and thus evenly distributed at 120° around the rolling axis X. Therefore, in the configuration shown in the figure, one of the three actuators is arranged in a vertical (or “perpendicular”) direction through the rolling axis. Figure 1 and Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the rolling mill at an even number of cages is shown.

[0013] The mill's control system includes a single motor M for each cage, connected to the corresponding roll via a three-output gear distributor set RD. The horizontal-axis roll R1 is directly connected to this distributor gear set via a motion connection extension L1, while each of the two inclined rolls R2 and R3 is connected to the distributor gear set RD via double extensions L2+L2' and L3+L3', with dedicated angular gearboxes G2 and G3 between these double extensions. The motors and distributor gear sets for the different cages are located on the same side of the mill so that the opposite sides are available for free cage removal. During the cage removal step (to allow for the creation of a free path for cage movement), the hydraulic actuator A2 of the roll R2 on the cage removal side is rotatable (shown in the figure in a non-operating rotational state), thus temporarily removing it from the removal path.

[0014] While this type of rolling mill is effective, it also has some limitations.

[0015] The control system includes a three-output gear distributor group RD and dedicated angle gearboxes G2 and G3 for each cage (the included angle between the input and output shafts is approximately 50–60°), making the control system complex and expensive.

[0016] Furthermore, the dedicated angle gearbox G2, located below the rolling mill and connected to the corresponding roll via an extension L2' at a 30° angle relative to the vertical, is inevitably affected by the discharge of cooling water. Once it reaches gearbox G2, the water seeps into the lubrication system and then into other gearboxes. This leads to corrosion problems, affecting not only the double extensions L2+L2' and the lower angle gearbox G2, but all gearboxes, resulting in significant maintenance costs.

[0017] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A second example of a rolling mill with lateral cage removal on the same side is shown. The general configuration of the mill's rolls and control system is similar to... Figure 1 The mill shown is similar. However, the radial adjustment system for the rolls is integrated into each roll holder box and consists of a mechanical adjustment system suitable for synchronously adjusting the radial movement of each roll. The movement of this adjustment system is provided by an external control device C, which is mounted on a fixed structure of the mill located on the cage removal side. This external control device C is rotatable relative to the fixed structure F to create a free path for removing the cage.

[0018] However, even in this approach, the aforementioned limitations associated with the complexity and cost of the control system, as well as the presence of a dedicated angle gearbox located below the rolling mill and thus exposed to the cooling water discharge, remain.

[0019] To overcome the aforementioned limitations, multi-cage rolling mills with the following structure have been proposed:

[0020] - A simplified control system, comprising a geared motor assembly for each roll of each cage, and a motion connection extension without a dedicated angle gearbox located between the geared motor assembly and the corresponding roll;

[0021] - A (hydraulic) roll adjustment actuator, located outside the cage and structurally fixedly associated with the mill;

[0022] - Different arrangements of the three rolls within the cage.

[0023] For example, this type of multi-cage rolling mill is described in WO2009141414A1 and EP2560771B1.

[0024] Specifically, each cage has three rolls, which are evenly distributed around the rolling axis at 120° angles relative to each other. One of these three rolls has a vertical axis of rotation, rather than a horizontal one. The rolls of the odd-numbered cages rotate 60° relative to the even-numbered cages around the rolling axis. Each roll has its own adjusting actuator, specifically a hydraulic type, which is mounted on a fixed structure of the mill. These adjusting actuators are radially aligned with the corresponding roll, thus being evenly distributed around the rolling axis at 120° angles, and consequently, one of the adjusting actuators is located in the horizontal direction through the rolling axis. This arrangement of the rolls and the absence of a dedicated angle gearbox located below the mill avoid problems associated with water seepage into the lubrication system.

[0025] After clearing the path by moving the connecting extension of one of the inclined rolls, each cage is removed on the side opposite to the side where the roll with the vertical axis is located. However, with this configuration, the cages may not be removed on the same side of the mill, but rather the even-numbered cages are on one side and the odd-numbered cages are on the other.

[0026] Therefore, the rolling mills described in WO2009141414A1 and EP2560771B1, despite their significant simplification of equipment, do not offer the operational advantages associated with the ability to remove all cages from the same side of the rolling mill.

[0027] To date, there is no multi-cage mill that both allows all cages to be removed from the same side of the mill and has a simplified roll control system that does not require a dedicated angle gearbox.

[0028] In the field of rolling mills used for solid, slender products, the varying requirements for roll calibration necessitate more frequent roll changes. Therefore, this field demands multi-cage rolling mills that combine the ability to remove all cages from the same side with a simplified roll control system that eliminates the need for a dedicated angle gearbox. Summary of the Invention

[0029] Therefore, the main objective of this invention is to eliminate or at least reduce the defects in the prior art by providing a rolling mill for solid, slender products. The rolling mill provided by this invention combines a simplified roll control system that allows all cages to be removed from the same side and does not require a dedicated angle gearbox.

[0030] Another object of the present invention is to provide a rolling mill for solid, slender products that is structurally simple to manufacture and is manufactured at a much lower cost than conventional schemes that allow all cages to be removed from the same side of the rolling mill. Brief description of the attached figures

[0031] The technical features of the invention according to the above objectives are clearly visible from the appended claims, and the advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of the embodiments below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate one or more purely exemplary and not limiting embodiments of the invention. The drawings are as follows:

[0032] Figure 1 A partial view of a first example of a conventional type of rolling mill for solid, slender products is shown, which allows all cages to be removed from the same side. The figure is a cross-sectional view at an even number of cages.

[0033] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A partial enlarged view of the intermediate rolling mill;

[0034] Figure 3 A perspective view of a second example of a conventional type of rolling mill for solid, slender products is shown, which allows all cages to be removed from the same side, wherein the external control of the radial roll adjustment system shown is inactive;

[0035] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 An orthogonal side view of the intermediate rolling mill, in which the external control device of the radial roll adjustment system is in operation;

[0036] Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the distribution of each rolling station along the rolling axis in a rolling mill for solid slender products according to the present invention is shown.

[0037] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the arrangement of the rolls in a rolling station belonging to the first group of rolling stations in the rolling mill of the present invention is shown;

[0038] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the arrangement of the rolls in a rolling station belonging to the second group of rolling stations in the rolling mill of the present invention is shown;

[0039] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the rolling mill of the present invention is shown. The view is a cross-sectional view along a plane orthogonal to the rolling axis and immediately upstream of the input end of a rolling station of the first group of rolling stations, wherein the associated roll support box of the rolling station is in an operable position (operably connected to the actuators of the roll control system and the roll adjustment system).

[0040] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 An enlarged view of a portion of the rolling mill shown;

[0041] Figure 10 It shows Figure 8The same cross-sectional view of the rolling mill, wherein the relevant roll support box of the rolling mill is in the removed position (operably disconnected from the actuators of the control system and the roll adjustment system);

[0042] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 An enlarged view of a portion of the rolling mill shown;

[0043] Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the rolling mill of the present invention is shown. The view is a cross-sectional view along a plane orthogonal to the rolling axis and immediately upstream of the input end of a rolling station of the second set of rolling stations, wherein the associated roll support box of the rolling station is in an operable position (operably connected to the actuators of the roll control system and the roll adjustment system).

[0044] Figure 13 It shows Figure 12 An enlarged view of a portion of the rolling mill shown;

[0045] Figure 14 It shows Figure 12 The same cross-sectional view of the rolling mill, wherein the relevant roll support box of the rolling mill is in the removed position (operably disconnected from the actuators of the control system and the roll adjustment system);

[0046] Figure 15 It shows Figure 14 An enlarged view of a portion of the rolling mill shown;

[0047] Figure 16 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a roll support box of a rolling mill according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown, the roll support box being provided with a system for synchronous mechanical adjustment of the rolls;

[0048] Figure 17 It shows the installation Figure 16 A perspective view of the system for synchronously mechanically adjusting the rolls inside the roll support box; and

[0049] Figure 18 It shows Figure 17 A portion of a system for synchronizing mechanically adjusting rolls, the portion relating to connection with an external device for actuating the system.

[0050] Common elements or parts thereof in the following embodiments are indicated by the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0051] This invention relates to a rolling mill for solid, slender products in the steel industry, such as bars and wire rods.

[0052] Advantageously, the rolling mill of the present invention is particularly designed for finishing rolling.

[0053] The term "finish rolling" is used in this article to refer to the process in the steel industry of longitudinally rolling a slender semi-finished product (e.g., bar or wire) to achieve its final dimensions using rolls. This process inherently results in a reduction in the size of the semi-finished product until it reaches its nominal value.

[0054] Reference Figures 5 to 18 Reference numeral 1 in the accompanying drawing generally indicates a rolling mill for solid, slender products used in the steel industry according to the present invention.

[0055] In this and the following description and the appended claims, reference is made to the rolling mill 1 in its operational state. Therefore, any reference to a lower or higher position, or a horizontal or vertical direction, should be interpreted in this context.

[0056] The rolling mill 1 for solid slender products defines a rolling axis X, along which the slender product to be rolled slides.

[0057] According to a general embodiment of the invention, the rolling mill 1 includes a first group (i.e., a first plurality of) rolling stations 100 and a second group (i.e., a second plurality of) rolling stations 200, the first and second groups of rolling stations being arranged in series along the rolling axis X and alternating between each other at the input and output ends of the rolling mill 1. This configuration of the rolling mill 1 in... Figure 5 The diagram schematically illustrates that each of the rolling mills 100 and 200 (e.g., six in total) is schematically shown in rectangles.

[0058] Each of the aforementioned rolling stations 100 or 200 includes:

[0059] -Bearing structures 110, 210, and

[0060] - Roll-holder cartridges 120 and 220 are removably connected to the support structures 110 and 210 in the removal direction Y, so that they can be removed from the support structures for replacement and / or maintenance.

[0061] Preferably, such as Figures 8 to 15 As shown, the load-bearing structures 110 and 210 of each rolling station are fixed to a common ground support base 2, which extends parallel to the aforementioned rolling axis X.

[0062] Advantageously, each support structure 110, 210 defines an operating housing base 4 for the roll support box. This housing base 4 is defined at the bottom by a horizontal bottom wall 5, which serves as a support base for the roll support boxes 120, 220 within the housing base 4.

[0063] Preferably, the load-bearing structure of each rolling station may include a support structure 6 for the roll holder box, the support structure 6 forming an extension of the aforementioned horizontal bottom wall 5 outside the housing base 4. This support structure 6 serves as a support base for the roll holder box outside the housing base 4.

[0064] For example, such as Figure 11 and Figure 15 As shown, each roll holder box 120 or 220 includes three rolling rolls 131, 132, 133 or 231, 232, 233, which are mounted on the roll holder box itself so that they can be moved radially relative to the rolling axis X along corresponding radial axes T1, T2, T3 passing through the rolling axis.

[0065] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As schematically shown, the three rolls 131, 132, 133 or 231, 232, 233 of each roll holder box 120 or 220 can rotate about three corresponding rotation axes R1, R2, R3, wherein these three rotation axes are arranged at 120° relative to each other. One of the rolls 131, 231 has its own vertical rotation axis R1, while the other two rolls 132, 133 or 232, 233 have their own rotation axes R2, R3 that are inclined relative to the vertical direction. The inclined rotation axes R2, R3 are both at an angle of 60° relative to the vertical direction.

[0066] Each of the aforementioned rolling stations 100 or 200 includes a system for synchronously and mechanically adjusting all three rolls 131, 132, 133 or 231, 232, 233 mounted on roll support boxes 120 or 220.

[0067] The mechanical adjustment system is adapted to act synchronously on the rolls during use to maintain a predetermined radial distance between the rolls and the rolling axis X.

[0068] The radial distance of each roll is measured along the radial axis T1, T2, T3 of each roll. The "radial axis (line)" T1, T2, T3 of the roll refers to the axis that is orthogonally incident on the rotation axis R1, R2, R3 of the roll and the rolling axis X.

[0069] The predetermined radial distance can be adjusted according to the nominal dimensions of the elongated product to be rolled, and the predetermined radial distance can be adjusted to optimize its tolerance by receiving values ​​continuously measured by a specially provided measuring system located downstream of the rolling mill.

[0070] Through the aforementioned adjustment system, the three rolls are adjusted synchronously and equivalently in terms of changes in radial distance. In other words, the aforementioned adjustment system is not configured to allow individual adjustments between the rolls in the same roll holder box.

[0071] Each of the aforementioned rolling mills 100 or 200 further includes means 141, 241 for actuating a synchronous mechanical adjustment system mounted on a roll holder box. Such actuation means 141, 241 are mounted on the support structure 110, 210 of the roll holder box and are adapted to be engaged by connecting the synchronous mechanical adjustment system along the connection direction Z.

[0072] The synchronous mechanical adjustment system installed on the roll support box can be of any type, as long as it is suitable for the purpose and can be operated by a device outside the roll support box.

[0073] according to Figure 16 , Figure 17 and Figure 18 In the preferred embodiment shown, the aforementioned synchronous mechanical adjustment system includes a circular toothed crown 151 rotatably mounted on the edge of the roll holder box, coaxial with the rolling axis X. Three rolls of the roll holder box are positioned on one side of the circular toothed crown 151, each with its own axis of rotation parallel to the plane of the circular toothed crown 151. The adjustment system includes a pair of toothed circular bushings 152, 153 for each roll, arranged such that the corresponding roll is positioned between them. These two bushings are coaxial with each other and eccentric relative to the roll's axes of rotation R1, R2, R3. In this way, rotation of the two bushings about their own axes corresponds to translation of the roll parallel to its own radial axes T1, T2, T3.

[0074] For each bushing 152, 153, the aforementioned adjustment system further includes an element 162 for the kinematic connection between the bushing and the circular toothed crown 151. More specifically, this element 162 consists of a rod comprising a first portion 162a and a second portion 162b, wherein the first portion 162a consists of a worm gear (engaged on the toothed bushing) and the second portion 162b consists of a gear (engaged on the circular toothed crown 151).

[0075] One of the aforementioned motion connecting elements (referenced as 162', hereinafter referred to as the "main motion connecting element") further includes a third part 162c, which is composed of another gear. The third part 162c is kinematically connected to a connecting body 181, which can be engaged by the aforementioned actuating devices 141, 241 disposed outside the roll holder box. The engagement between the connecting body 181 and the actuating devices 141, 241 is along a predetermined engagement direction Z. Advantageously, the engagement between the connecting body 181 and the actuating devices 141, 241 can be obtained in any manner suitable for this purpose. For example, in Figures 17-18 In the illustrated embodiment, this engagement is achieved via a connector having a hexagonal shape. Alternatively, for example, as... Figure 9 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 and Figure 15 As shown, such engagement is achieved through the connection between the toothed portions.

[0076] Operationally, during the adjustment step, the actuators 141 and 241 apply rotation on their own axes via the coupling 181 to the main motion connecting element 162'. This rotation causes rotation of the bushing 152 directly connected to it, but also simultaneously causes equivalent rotation of other bushings via the motion connection ensured by the circular toothed crown 151 and other rods 162. Thus, the above mechanism ensures synchronous adjustment of all three rolls in a roll holder box.

[0077] Each of the aforementioned rolling stations 100 or 200 further includes three geared motor assemblies 161, 163 or 261, 262, 263, which are connected to the corresponding rolls via single extensions 171, 172, 173 or 271, 272, 273 to provide the torque required for the rolls to rotate and for the product to advance along the rolling axis X. In other words, as shown in the figures, each individual rolling station 100 or 200 has three separate extensions, one for each geared motor assembly and the associated roll.

[0078] In each rolling station, a group of three geared motors and their associated individual extensions constitute the control system for the rolls, which have individual control devices.

[0079] By comparing, for example Figure 9 and Figure 13 It can be seen that the positions of the rolls 231, 232, and 233 of the second group of rolling stations 200 are rotated by 60° relative to the positions of the rolls of the first group of rolling stations 100 around the rolling axis X.

[0080] Due to this angled arrangement of the rolls rotating between the first rolling station 100 and the second rolling station 200, products sliding along the rolling axis can be rolled in a consistent manner. In a given rolling station, the groove bottom of each roll actually acts on the portion of the product that was not affected by the rolls in the previous rolling station.

[0081] Furthermore, due to the aforementioned angled arrangement of the rolls rotating between the two consecutive rolling stations, the rolls 131 of the first rolling station 100 with vertical axes are arranged on the first side 1a of the rolling mill 1, while the rolls 231 of the second rolling station 200 with vertical axes are arranged on the second side 1b of the rolling mill 1, which is opposite to the first side relative to the rolling axis X.

[0082] The arrangement of the rolls in the first rolling mill 100 and the second rolling mill 200 is shown in a simplified manner. Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the middle, it can be observed that rolls 131 and 231 with vertical axes have their respective associated horizontal radial axes T1, while inclined rolls 132 and 133 and 232 and 233 have their respective radial axes T2 and T3 inclined at 30° relative to the vertical direction. The upper inclined rolls 132 and 232 and the lower inclined rolls 133 and 233 can also be determined relative to the horizontal plane passing through the rolling axis X.

[0083] "A roll located on one side of the mill" means that the roll extends radially outward from the rolling axis in a horizontal direction on that side.

[0084] According to the present invention, all rolling stations 100, 200 of the rolling mill 1 are configured to allow the lateral removal of their respective roll support boxes 120 and 220 from the same side of the rolling mill 1, which is referred to below as the "box removal side".

[0085] Such a box removal side (which is the same for all rolling stations 100 and 200) can correspond to:

[0086] -The aforementioned first side 1a, that is, the side of the rolling mill 1 with the first set of rolling stations 100 and the rolls 131 having a vertical axis; or

[0087] -The aforementioned second side 1b, that is, the side of the rolling mill 1 opposite to the aforementioned first side and where the second set of rolling stations 200 is arranged with the rolls 231 having a vertical axis.

[0088] Preferably, as shown in the accompanying drawings, boxes 120 and 220 are taken out from the relevant rolling stations 100 and 200 along the take-out path located on the horizontal plane defined by the aforementioned horizontal bottom wall 5 and the support structure 6 located outside the housing seat 4, in the aforementioned take-out direction Y.

[0089] According to the present invention, such as Figures 8 to 15 As shown, all rolling stations 100, 200 may have devices 141, 241 for operating the synchronous mechanical adjustment system, which are fixedly mounted on the support structures 110, 210 of the roll holder box. This configuration can be adopted if these devices 141, 241 are located on the side 1b of the mill opposite to the box removal side, and their respective connection directions Z are parallel to the removal direction Y.

[0090] With this configuration, the following occurs:

[0091] -Actuators 141 and 241 are arranged outside the box removal path and will not constitute obstruction components; moreover

[0092] - The removal / insertion of the roll holder box in the corresponding rolling station along the Y direction is compatible with the engagement and disengagement of the actuators 141 and 241 within the roll holder box.

[0093] In operation, with this configuration, when the roll holder box is inserted into the rolling station, the actuators 141 and 241 can be automatically assembled onto the roll holder box without any action from the actuators. In the same automatic manner, i.e. without any action from the actuators, when the roll holder box is removed from the rolling station, the actuators 141 and 241 can also disengage from the roll holder box.

[0094] This configuration significantly simplifies the process of preparing a free removal path for the roll support box on the same side of the rolling mill. In fact, in this case, as will be discussed again below, only the movement of each individual extension 171, 172, 173 or 271, 272, 273 is required.

[0095] Alternatively, according to the invention again, all rolling stations 100, 200 may have devices 141, 241 for operating a synchronous mechanical adjustment system, which are movably mounted on the support structures 110, 210 of the roll holder box. This configuration may be adopted if these devices 141, 241 are positioned such that they have a connection direction Z incident on the take-off direction Y.

[0096] In this case, the removal / insertion movement of the roll holder box in each rolling station along the Y direction is actually incompatible with the movement required for engagement and disengagement of the actuating devices 141, 241 in the roll holder box. Therefore, it is necessary to move these devices 141, 241 to at least disengage from the corresponding synchronous mechanical adjustment system before removing the roll holder box.

[0097] If these devices 141, 241 are not arranged along the box removal path, they do not constitute obstruction elements. Therefore, their movement can have a limited width, sufficient to allow disengagement from the corresponding adjustment system and roll support box.

[0098] If such devices 141, 241 are positioned along the box removal path, they would constitute obstruction elements. Therefore, their operation must have a greater width to completely release the removal path of the roll support box.

[0099] Implementation schemes employing the two different solutions described above can be provided in the following sense:

[0100] - Some rolling mills adopt the first scheme (i.e., the actuator is fixedly installed on the side of the rolling mill opposite to the box removal side, with the connection direction Z parallel to the removal direction Y); and

[0101] - The remaining rolling stations adopt the second scheme (i.e., the actuator is installed in a movable manner, with the connection direction Z and the injection direction Y).

[0102] According to the preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, all rolling stations are configured according to the first scheme, i.e., the actuation device is fixedly installed on the side of the rolling mill opposite to the box removal side, and has a connecting direction Z parallel to the removal direction Y. Specifically, the removal direction Y is parallel to the connecting direction Z and is horizontal.

[0103] Furthermore, according to the present invention, each individual extension 171, 172, 173 and 271, 272, 273 of all rolling stations 100, 200 is movable relative to the support structure 110, 210 of the respective rolling station so as to be disengaged from the respective rolls 131, 132, 133 and 231, 232, 233 and possibly release the take-out path of the roll support box.

[0104] The rolling mill 1 for solid, slender products with the above features combines the possibility of removing all roll support boxes from the same side with a simplified roll control system that does not require a specific angular gearbox.

[0105] As previously emphasized, the control system for each rolling mill roll consists of three geared motor assemblies 161, 163 or 261, 262, 263 connected to each roll via individual extensions 171, 172, 173 or 271, 272, 273. Therefore, the control system provides a dedicated geared motor assembly for each roll. This allows each geared motor assembly to be spatially arranged according to the position of the corresponding roll, with the kinematic connection between the geared motor assembly and the roll defined by a single extension. This avoids the need for a kinematic connection solution using double extensions interconnected via a specific angle gearbox (a solution unavoidable in mills where all rolls in the roll holder box use a single motor control system).

[0106] With this configuration of the control system and the spatial distribution of the rolls (in which each rolling station provides a roll with a vertical axis of rotation), in each rolling station, one of the three extensions can be arranged vertically, while the other two extensions (dedicated to the two inclined rolls) are located on two axes approximately 60° relative to the vertical. In other words, in all rolling stations, it is possible to easily avoid having an extension (with its associated geared motor assembly) directly below the rolling station, making maintenance activities easier.

[0107] The aforementioned configuration of the control system also avoids positioning the gearbox directly below the rolling mill. This fundamentally avoids problems associated with water seeping into the lubrication system through the gearbox.

[0108] Preferably, as shown in the accompanying drawings, the individual extensions 171, 172, 173 and 271, 272, 273 are arranged such that, when operably connected to the respective rolls 131, 132, 133 and 231, 232, 233, they are substantially aligned in the axial direction with the rotation axes R1, R2, R3 of the respective rolls 131, 132, 133 and 231, 232, 233.

[0109] "An extension of an axis aligned with the rotation axis of the corresponding roll" refers to the average alignment position that occurs during the transmission of motion to the roll, excluding radial adjustment of the roll optimized according to the product's nominal dimensions and tolerances.

[0110] Thus, preferably, in each rolling station, the extensions 171, 271 dedicated to the rolls with vertical axes are arranged in the vertical direction, while the remaining two extensions 172, 173 and 272, 273 (dedicated to the two inclined rolls) are arranged on two axes at approximately 60° to the vertical direction.

[0111] According to the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, extensions 171 and 271 associated with rolls 131 and 231 having vertical axes are arranged vertically in the axial direction and associated with respective gear motor assemblies 161 and 261. Each gear motor assembly includes horizontally arranged motors 161a and 261a and angle gearboxes 161b and 261b, wherein the input and output shafts of the angle gearboxes form a 90° angle. In particular, each of such gear motor assemblies 161 and 261 is supported above the corresponding rolling stations 100 and 200 by brackets or scaffolding 164 and 264.

[0112] According to an alternative embodiment not shown in the accompanying drawings, extensions 171 and 271 associated with rolls 131 and 231 having vertical axes are arranged vertically in the axial direction and can be associated with respective gear motor assemblies 161 and 261, wherein each gear motor assembly includes a motor arranged vertically and a gearbox having parallel input and output shaft axes. Specifically, each of such gear motor assemblies 161 and 261 is supported above the respective rolling stations 100 and 200 by brackets or scaffolding 164 and 264.

[0113] Preferably, the extensions 172, 173 and 272, 273 associated with the rolls 132, 133 and 232, 233 having inclined axes are associated with respective gear motor assemblies 163 and 262, 263, wherein each gear motor assembly includes a motor and a gearbox having parallel input and output shaft axes. Specifically, as shown in the figures, each of these gear motor assemblies 163 and 262, 263 is arranged on a base 3a or 3b (foundation) defined by an inclined plane (preferably at 60° relative to the vertical direction), wherein the base 3a or 3b extends beside a common ground support base 2 on one of the mill sides 1a or 1b parallel to the rolling axis X. Alternatively, the base 3a or 3b (foundation) may define a horizontal plane, and the gear motor assembly is mounted on the base at the necessary angle of inclination.

[0114] Preferably, the gear motor assemblies 161, 163 and 261, 262, 263 of all rolling stations are fixedly mounted on their respective support bases. In this case (which is entirely preferred), as will be explained later, the movement to disengage the extension from the roll (and the possible removal path to release the roll support box) is achieved by moving only the extension, thus not affecting the gear motor assemblies. This significantly simplifies the system.

[0115] As emphasized above, the individual extensions of all rolling stations 100, 200 are movable relative to the supporting structures 110, 210 to disengage from the respective rolls 131, 132, 133 and 231, 232, 233 and possibly release the roll support box removal path.

[0116] Preferably, the extensions 171, 172, 173 and 271, 272, 273 of all rolling stations 100, 200 can be moved relative to the bearing structure of the respective rolling station by at least one translational movement along its axis.

[0117] According to the preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the individual extensions 171, 172, 173 and 271, 272, 273 have telescopic structures. In this case, the aforementioned translational movement of the extensions along their axes (for disengaging the corresponding rolls and potentially releasing the removal path of the roll support box) can be obtained by axial sliding movement between two or more different parts of the telescopic structure of the individual extensions.

[0118] According to one embodiment not shown in the accompanying drawings, individual extensions 171, 172, 173 and 271, 272, 273 can be configured to slide along the gearbox shaft of the corresponding geared motor assembly. This sliding movement causes the extension to translate along its own axis. This axial sliding allows the extension to disengage from the hub of the corresponding roll and, if necessary, releases an extraction path for the associated roll support box.

[0119] A telescopic extension can be used instead of an extension that slides along the shaft of the corresponding gear motor assembly, or in combination with an extension that slides along the shaft of the corresponding gear motor assembly.

[0120] According to the preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, in all rolling stations 100, 200, at least one of the individual extensions 172, 272 can be rotated and translated to disengage from the corresponding roll 132, 232 to release the associated roll support box for removal, and may release the roll support box's own removal path.

[0121] From an operational perspective, when the width of the translational motion is equal, rotational translation allows for a more significant removal of the extension from the associated roll holder box compared to pure (simple) translation, thus enabling the release of the path for removing the roll holder box from the mill without excessive translational travel.

[0122] This solution can be used for all extensions of the rolling mill. However, it is preferably used only for extensions 172 and 272 that are operatively associated with the upper inclined rolls 132 and 232. In fact, it can be particularly used in... Figure 9 and Figure 13The most intrusive extension of the operating housing 4 observed are the extensions 172 and 272 associated with the upwardly inclined rolls 132 and 232.

[0123] It should be noted that for the extension 272 associated with the inclined rolls in the rolling station (which has vertical rolls arranged on the side opposite to the box removal side), a scheme with rotational translational motion is preferred. In fact, in these rolling stations, the extensions of the inclined rolls are positioned along the box removal path, and therefore their complete movement is important.

[0124] In contrast, the extensions 173 and 273 associated with the downward-sloping rolls 133 and 233 and the extensions 171 and 271 associated with the vertical rolls 131 and 231 intrude into the corresponding operating housing seats 4 to a much smaller extent, thus requiring a more limited width of movement, which can be achieved by a purely (simple) axial translation.

[0125] Preferably, each rolling station 100, 200 having a movable actuator is provided with a means 174, 175 for moving the corresponding extension. Such moving means 174, 175 can be arbitrary, as long as they are suitable for the purpose.

[0126] exist Figures 8 to 15 In the illustrated embodiment, such a moving device may consist of a simple lever mechanism 174 actuated by a hydraulic cylinder piston to produce a purely translational motion (particularly for extensions 171, 173, 271, 273). Alternatively, the moving device may consist of a device 175 mounted on a rotatable base for axial translation of the extensions to produce rotational translational motion (for extensions 172, 272).

[0127] Advantageously, each rolling station 100, 200 may include a device 300 for moving the corresponding roll support box along the box removal path.

[0128] Specifically, the device 300 is adapted to remove the roll support box from the operating housing 4 and bring it into the housing.

[0129] Preferably, the moving device 300 is placed on the side 1b of the rolling mill 1 opposite to the box removal side 1a.

[0130] More specifically, during the box removal step, the device 300 applies a pushing action on the roll support box, and during the positioning of the roll support box within the housing seat 4, the device 300 applies a pulling action on the box.

[0131] With this configuration, the mobile unit 300 is never positioned within the space used for manipulating and replacing the roll support box. This allows for uninterrupted free space for roll support box manipulation and replacement, enabling direct connection from the mill to the roll support box maintenance workshop. This configuration also simplifies the structure of the mobile unit. In particular, no special structural measures are required to prevent the mobile unit from obstructing the movement of the roll support box.

[0132] According to a preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the aforementioned moving device 300 comprises at least one hydraulic pneumatic cylinder.

[0133] More specifically, the hydraulic-pneumatic cylinder 300 is arranged to move in the axial direction parallel to the aforementioned horizontal bottom wall 5 and the aforementioned support structure 6 of the roll support box, wherein the horizontal bottom wall 5 serves as a support base for the roll support boxes 120, 220 within the housing 4, and the support structure 6 forms an extension of the horizontal bottom wall 5 outside the housing 4. Preferably, the hydraulic-pneumatic cylinder is arranged close to the sliding surface of the roll support box so as to apply its action at the base of the roll support box itself.

[0134] Operationally, once the three extensions disengage from the rolls of the corresponding roll holder boxes and are ready for a free path from the housing seat toward the outer side of the box removal side 1a (possibly moving actuators 141, 241), the moving device is activated. Then, the device 300 pushes the roll holder box from the housing seat 4 through the support structure 6 to the double-position change carriage 310, which receives the used roll holder box removed from the mill and, after translating along an axis parallel to the rolling axis X, positions the new roll holder box by pulling it over the structure 6 so that it can be inserted into the housing 4 by the device 300.

[0135] Preferably, for example, Figure 10 As shown, the same bracket 310 can be directly connected to the maintenance workshop via a rail transport system.

[0136] Advantageously, each roll holder box 120, 220 is provided with a system for detecting the radial position of its respective roll, thereby allowing adjustment of the operation of the synchronous mechanical adjustment system of the rolls. Advantageously, since the radial positioning of each roll is synchronous, such a detection system may include a single linear transducer or a single angle encoder (associated with one of the rolls) that uniquely detects the rotation angle of the adjustment system on the roll holder box.

[0137] This invention allows for numerous advantages, which have been explained in the description.

[0138] The present invention combines the possibility of removing all cages from the same side in the rolling mill 1 for solid slender products with a simplified roll control system that does not require a specific angle gearbox.

[0139] The mill 1 of the present invention for solid, slender products is also structurally easy to manufacture, with significantly lower manufacturing costs compared to conventional solutions that allow removal of all roll support boxes from the same side of the mill, especially considering that the gearbox of the mill of the present invention is standard and therefore readily available on the market at a significantly lower cost. There is also an advantage related to the location of the lower gearbox. The latter is located away from the rolling shaft, away from the mill's heat sources, water, and flakes, thus making it more reliable and easier to access for maintenance.

[0140] Therefore, the present invention, conceived in this way, achieves its intended purpose.

[0141] Obviously, in its actual implementation, different forms and configurations may be adopted without departing from the protection scope of the present invention.

[0142] Furthermore, all details can be replaced by technically equivalent elements, and the size, form, and materials used can be arbitrary, depending on the specific requirements.

Claims

1. A rolling mill (1) for solid, slender products, defining a rolling axis (X), comprising a first set of rolling stations (100) and a second set of rolling stations (200), the first set of rolling stations and the second set of rolling stations being arranged alternately in series along the rolling axis (X) between the input and output ends of the rolling mill (1), wherein, Each of the rolling stations includes: - Load-bearing structure (110, 210); - A roll holder box (120, 220) is removably connected to the support structure (110, 220) in the removal direction (Y), and the roll holder box (120, 220) includes three rolling rolls (131, 132, 133; 231, 232, 233), which are mounted on the roll holder box (120, 220) so as to be removable relative to the bearing structure (110, 220). The rolling axis (X) moves radially; the three rolls are rotatable about three respective axes of rotation (R1, R2, R3), wherein the three axes of rotation (R1, R2, R3) are 120° apart, and the axis of rotation (R1) of one of the three rolls (131, 231) is vertical, while the respective axes of rotation (R2, R3) of the other two rolls (132, 133; 232, 233) are inclined relative to the vertical direction; - A synchronous mechanical adjustment system for synchronously adjusting all three rolls (131, 132, 133; 231, 232, 233) mounted on the roll holder boxes (120, 220), and the synchronous mechanical adjustment system is capable of acting on the rolls in use to maintain a predetermined radial distance between the rolls and the rolling axis (X); the synchronous mechanical adjustment system includes a circular toothed crown (151), a pair of toothed circular bushings (152, 153) for each roll, and a moving connection element (162) disposed between each toothed circular bushing (152, 153) and the circular toothed crown (151), the circular toothed crown (151) being rotatably mounted on the edge of the roll holder boxes (120, 220) and coaxial with the rolling axis (X), and the pair of toothed circular bushings (152, 153) being arranged such that the corresponding roll is placed therebetween; - A device (141, 241) for actuating the synchronous mechanical adjustment system, which is mounted on the bearing structure (110, 210) of the roll holder box and adapted to engage by connecting the synchronous mechanical adjustment system along the coupling direction (Z); the device (141, 241) applies rotation on the axis of the main motion connecting element in the motion connecting element (162) by means of a coupling body (181); - Three geared motor assemblies (161, 163; 261, 262, 263), each connected to the roll via a single extension (171, 172, 173; 271, 272, 273) to provide the roll with the torque required to rotate and advance the product along the rolling axis (X); In this arrangement, the positions of the rolls (231, 232, 233) of the second set of rolling stations (200) are rotated by 60° relative to the positions of the rolls of the first set of rolling stations (100) around the rolling axis (X), such that the rolls (131) with vertical axes of the first set of rolling stations (100) are arranged on the first side (1a) of the rolling mill (1), and the rolls (231) with vertical axes of the second set of rolling stations (200) are arranged on the second side (1b) of the rolling mill (1), with the second side (1b) opposite to the first side relative to the rolling axis (X); All rolling stations (100, 200) of the mill (1) are configured to allow the lateral removal of their respective roll support boxes (120, 220) from the same side of the mill (1), which corresponds to the first side (1a) or the second side (1b). Furthermore, all of the rolling mills (100, 200) have their own devices (141, 241) for actuating the synchronous mechanical adjustment system. If the device (141, 241) for actuating the synchronous mechanical adjustment system is positioned on the side of the rolling mill opposite to the roll take-out side and has a connection direction (Z) parallel to the take-out direction (Y), then the device (141, 241) for actuating the synchronous mechanical adjustment system is fixedly mounted on the bearing structure (110, 210) of the roll holder box; or, If the means (141, 241) for actuating the synchronous mechanical adjustment system is positioned to have a connection direction (Z) incident on the extraction direction (Y), then the means (141, 241) for actuating the synchronous mechanical adjustment system is movably mounted on the support structure (110, 210) of the roll holder box, and the means (141, 241) for actuating the synchronous mechanical adjustment system is movable to disengage from the corresponding synchronous mechanical adjustment system and to release the box extraction path; Each individual extension (171, 172, 173; 271, 272, 273) of all the rolling stations (100, 200) is movable relative to the support structure in order to disengage from its respective roll (131, 132, 133; 231, 232, 233) and potentially release the box removal path.

2. The rolling mill according to claim 1, wherein, When the individual extensions (171, 172, 173; 271, 272, 273) are operably connected to their respective rolls (131, 132, 133; 231, 232, 233), they are axially aligned with the rotation axes (R1, R2, R3) of their respective rolls.

3. The rolling mill according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Individual extensions (171, 271) associated with the rolls (131, 231) having vertical axes are arranged axially in a vertical direction and associated with the corresponding gear motor assembly (161, 261); wherein the angle gearboxes (161b, 261b) have input shafts and output shafts forming a 90° angle therebetween, or have input shafts and output shafts parallel to each other.

4. The rolling mill according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, A single extension (172, 173; 272, 273) associated with the rolls (132, 133; 232, 233) having inclined axes is associated with a corresponding gear motor assembly (163; 262, 263), wherein the angle gearbox has an input shaft and an output shaft that are parallel to each other.

5. The rolling mill according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Each individual extension (171, 172, 173; 271, 272, 273) of all the rolling stations (100, 200) can be translated relative to the bearing structure along their axis in order to disengage from the corresponding roll (131, 132, 133; 231, 232, 233) and release the associated roll support box for removal.

6. The rolling mill according to claim 5, wherein, The individual extensions (171, 172, 173; 271, 272, 273) are telescopic, and translational motion along the axis of the extension can be obtained by the sliding motion of the related telescopic structure.

7. The rolling mill according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The individual extensions (171, 172, 173; 271, 272, 273) can slide along the gearbox shaft of the corresponding gear motor assembly to separate from the hub of the corresponding roll.

8. The rolling mill according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, In all of the rolling stations (100, 200), at least one of the individual extensions (172, 272) is capable of rotational translation to disengage from the corresponding roll (132, 232) and release the corresponding roll support box for removal.

9. The rolling mill according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, All the gear motor assemblies (161, 163; 261, 262, 263) of the rolling mills are fixedly mounted on their respective bases.

10. The rolling mill according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Each rolling station (100, 200) includes a moving device (300) for moving the corresponding roll support box along the box removal path.

11. The rolling mill according to claim 10, wherein, The moving device (300) is placed on the side (1b) of the rolling mill (1) opposite to the box removal side (1a).

12. The rolling mill according to claim 10, wherein, The mobile device (300) consists of at least one hydraulic pneumatic cylinder.

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