Operating method of an endless casting-rolling installation with upsetting stand

Abstract

In a continuous casting machine (1), a metal strand (2) is cast and, without prior division into sections, is rolled from the casting heat into a flat rolled stock in the rolling stands (4) downstream of the continuous casting machine (1). During the casting of the metal strand (2), a width (b0) of the metal strand (2) is changed by the continuous casting machine (1) from an initial width to a final width, so that the metal strand (2) has a corresponding transition section. Before the transition section is rolled in the rolling stands (4), work rolls of the upsetting stand (3) are engaged against the transition section in an upsetting stand (3) located upstream of the rolling stands (4) during the transition section's passage through the upsetting stand (3), so that the metal strand (2) is upset in the transition section.The work rolls are set to an initial position by a control unit (6) at the beginning of the passage through the transition section of the upsetting stand (3) and gradually adjusted to a final position according to a travel curve during the passage through the transition section of the upsetting stand (3). At the end of the passage through the transition section of the upsetting stand (3), they are moved away from the metal strand (2). If the initial width is greater than the final width, the final position corresponds to the final width, and the control unit (6) determines the initial position and the travel curve online using a model (12) as a function of the aforementioned static and dynamic properties, so that the width of the flat rolled material in the area of ​​the transition section (5) corresponds as closely as possible to the target width of the flat rolled material after the transition section.If the initial width is smaller than the final width, the initial position corresponds to the initial width and the control device (6) determines the final position and the travel curve online using the model (12) as a function of the aforementioned static and dynamic properties, so that the width of the flat rolled material in the area of ​​the transition section corresponds as closely as possible to a target width of the flat rolled material before the transition section.

Description

field of technology

[0001] The present invention relates to an operating method for a continuous casting and rolling mill, wherein a metal strand is cast in a continuous casting machine of the continuous casting and rolling plant, wherein the cast metal strand is rolled from the casting heat into a flat rolled product in a number of rolling stands of the continuous casting and rolling plant downstream of the continuous casting machine without prior subdivision into sections, wherein during the casting of the metal strand a width of the metal strand is changed by the continuous casting machine from an initial width to a final width, so that the cast metal strand has a transition section in which the width of the cast metal strand changes from the initial width to the final width.

[0002] The present invention further relates to an endless casting and rolling plant, wherein the continuous casting and rolling plant comprises a continuous casting machine in which a metal strand is cast during operation, wherein the width of the metal strand can be changed from an initial width to a final width by the continuous casting machine, so that the cast metal strand has a transition section in which the width of the cast metal strand changes from the initial width to the final width, wherein the continuous casting and rolling plant comprises a number of rolling stands downstream of the continuous casting machine in which the cast metal strand is rolled from the casting heat into a flat rolled product during operation without prior subdivision into sections.

[0003] Within the scope of the present invention, the term "metal strand" (with or without the addition of "cast") refers to the metal strand from casting to rolling in the rolling stands. Within the scope of the present invention, the term "flat rolled stock" refers exclusively to the cast metal strand after rolling in the rolling stands. State of the art

[0004] Continuous casting and rolling mills and their associated operating procedures are generally known. Summary of the invention

[0005] If the width of a continuous casting and rolling mill, such as an ESP mill, is changed during the casting process, this change can only occur relatively slowly. Consequently, a transition section is created in which the width of the cast metal strand gradually changes from an initial width (the width before the change) to a final width (the width after the change). Before rolling in the rolling stands, this transition section is typically several meters long, for example, approximately 5 meters. During rolling in the stands, the transition section lengthens many times over; for very thick, flat material, it increases at least fourfold, and for very thin, flat material, up to 100 times. The transition section has neither the initial nor the final width and therefore represents scrap, either entirely or at least in its (width-wise) edge regions.

[0006] The idea of ​​installing a compression stand between the continuous casting machine and the rolling mills has already been considered. A compression stand allows the width to be changed more quickly than using the continuous casting machine. This reduces the length of the transition section. However, a significant section still remains that has neither the initial nor the final width.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide means by which the remaining length of the transition section – i.e., the length over which the transition section after rolling to the flat rolled material has neither the initial width nor the final width – can be reduced as much as possible.

[0008] The problem is solved by an operating method with the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the operating method are the subject of dependent claims 2 to 8.

[0009] According to the invention, an operating method of the type mentioned above is designed by: that before the transition section of the cast metal strand is rolled in the rolling stands, in a compression stand of the continuous casting and rolling mill located upstream of the rolling stands, work rolls of the compression stand are positioned against the transition section during the passage of the transition section through the compression stand, so that the cast metal strand is compressed in the transition section; that the work rolls of the compression stand are set to an initial position by a control device that controls at least the compression stand at the beginning of the passage of the transition section through the compression stand, are gradually set to a final position according to a travel curve during the passage of the transition section through the compression stand, and are moved away from the metal strand at the end of the passage of the transition section through the compression stand; that in the event that the initial width is greater than the final width,The final position corresponds to the final width, and the control unit determines the initial position and the travel curve online using a model, depending on the static and dynamic properties that the cast metal strand has before passing through the upsetting stand, so that the width of the flat rolled stock in the transition section corresponds as closely as possible to the target width of the flat rolled stock after the transition section, and that in the case that the initial width is smaller than the final width, the initial position corresponds to the initial width, and the control unit determines the final position and the travel curve online using the model, depending on the static and dynamic properties that the cast metal strand has before passing through the upsetting stand.so that the width of the flat rolled stock in the transition section corresponds as closely as possible to the target width of the flat rolled stock before the transition section.

[0010] The term "model" is to be understood comprehensively. It encompasses any design that determines the initial and final positions and the travel curve based on the static and dynamic properties of the cast metal strand.

[0011] The static and dynamic properties of the metal strand can be determined as required. Preferably, they include (at least) the width, thickness, chemical composition, and temperature of the metal strand.

[0012] The static and dynamic properties of the metal strand can be specified to the control unit in various ways. For example, the chemical composition of the metal strand is typically specified to the control unit by a higher-level system. The width and thickness of the metal strand can be known to the control unit based on the settings of the continuous casting mold's side walls. Preferably, however, the control unit receives at least one of the static and dynamic properties of the metal strand, in particular its width and / or its temperature, as a measurement acquired between the continuous casting machine and the upsetting stand. In this case, corresponding measuring devices are arranged between the continuous casting machine and the upsetting stand, which are connected to the control unit via data transmission of the acquired measurements.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the operating procedure, the model is designed as a process model, by means of which the upsetting of the transition section in the upsetting stand and the rolling of the transition section in the rolling stands are modeled based on mathematical-physical equations of the forming processes taking place in the upsetting stand and in the rolling stands.

[0014] The mathematical-physical equations allow for the modeling of not only the forming process in the upsetting stand and the associated reduction in the width of the cast metal strand, but also the subsequent re-widening of the cast metal strand in the rolling stands. If necessary, the mathematical-physical equations can also include algebraic equations in addition to the differential equations.

[0015] Alternatively, the model can be designed as a neural network to which the static and dynamic properties of the cast metal strand are fed and which determines the initial position or the final position and the travel curve.

[0016] Preferably, the travel curve is defined by a respective setting at a predetermined number of predetermined support points along the transition section, and the travel curve between the support points is defined according to a predetermined functionality that depends only on the settings at the support points.

[0017] This design is always feasible. In particular, it is feasible if the model is implemented as a process model or a neural network. However, this design allows for a particularly simple specification of the process curve. It is therefore also particularly efficient to apply if the model is neither implemented as a process model nor as a neural network, but is created purely empirically.

[0018] The number of support points is usually relatively small. It typically ranges between 3 and 8, preferably between 4 and 7, and especially between 5 or 6. The support points are predetermined in that they are normalized to the length of the transition section. If, for example, 5 support points are defined and the support points are evenly distributed, support point 1 is located at the beginning of the transition section, support point 3 in the middle of the transition section, and interface 5 at the end of the transition section. Furthermore, in this case, support points 2 and 4 are located midway between support points 1 and 3, and 3 and 5, respectively. The predefined functionality between the support points can be a simple linear relationship between the angles at immediately adjacent support points. Alternatively, it can be smooth curves, such as B-splines.

[0019] Preferably, the control unit implements an AWC (automatic width control) as part of the control of the upsetting stand during the upsetting of the transition section. This counteracts springback of the upsetting stand during the upsetting of the transition section, analogous to an AGC (automatic gauge control) in a "normal" rolling mill.

[0020] Preferably, after the cast metal strand has been rolled in at least one of the rolling stands, the control unit receives a metrologically measured width of the cast metal strand behind this rolling stand and adjusts at least one model parameter of the model, which is taken into account by the control unit when determining the initial or final position and the travel curve within the model, based on a deviation of the measured width from a corresponding expected width. This allows the model to be gradually and increasingly better adapted to the actual conditions.

[0021] Tracking at least one model parameter, in conjunction with an empirically developed model, leads to a particularly simple design that nevertheless delivers high-quality results.

[0022] The expected width can alternatively be the width determined during the pre-calculation. Alternatively, the expected width can be determined during a post-calculation. For those skilled in the art in rolling mill technology, the terms "pre-calculation" and "post-calculation" have clearly defined meanings. The pre-calculation is performed before the upsetting of the transition section in the upsetting stand. During the pre-calculation, based on the expected states of the transition section, the expected states of the upsetting stand, and the expected states of the relevant rolling stands, the expected width after rolling the cast metal strand in the at least one rolling stand is determined.Preliminary calculations, for example, take into account expected inlet widths of the transition section at specific locations, expected temperatures, expected forces and settings during upsetting, expected forces and settings during rolling, etc. Post-calculation is performed after upsetting and rolling. Post-calculation involves a similar determination to that made during preliminary calculations. The difference lies in the fact that it now uses actual inlet widths of the transition section at specific locations, actual temperatures, actual forces and settings during upsetting, actual forces and settings during rolling, etc. The procedures for preliminary and post-calculations are explained—albeit for a different scenario—for example, in the introductory remarks of WO 2012 / 034 884 A1.

[0023] The problem is further solved by a control program for a control unit of at least one upsetting stand of a continuous casting and rolling mill with the features of claim 9. In addition to the upsetting stand, the continuous casting and rolling mill comprises a continuous casting machine upstream of the upsetting stand and a number of rolling stands downstream of the upsetting stand. In the continuous casting machine, a metal strand is cast, which is rolled in the rolling stands from the hot casting state into a flat rolled product without prior subdivision into sections. According to the invention, the control program comprises machine code that can be executed by the control unit, wherein the execution of the machine code by the control unit causes the control unit to a starting width and a final width of the metal strand cast by the continuous casting machine are taken into account, wherein the final width has a value different from the starting width, so that the cast metal strand has a transition section in which the width of the cast metal strand changes from the starting width to the final width, depending on static and dynamic properties that the cast metal strand has before passing through the upsetting stand, an initial position or a final position of work rolls of the upsetting stand and furthermore a travel curve for the work rolls of the upsetting stand are determined online by means of a model, the work rolls of the upsetting stand are set to the initial position at the beginning of the passage of the transition section through the upsetting stand,During the passage of the transition section through the upsetting stand, the machine gradually adjusts to the final position according to the travel curve and, at the end of the passage of the transition section through the upsetting stand, moves away from the metal strand so that the cast metal strand is upset in the transition section, wherein, in the case that the initial width is greater than the final width, the final position corresponds to the final width and the control device determines the initial position and the travel curve such that a width of the flat rolled stock in the area of ​​the transition section corresponds as closely as possible to a target width of the flat rolled stock after the transition section, and wherein, in the case that the initial width is smaller than the final width, the initial position corresponds to the initial width and the control device determines the final position and the travel curve such thatthat the width of the flat rolled stock in the transition section corresponds as closely as possible to the target width of the flat rolled stock before the transition section.

[0024] Preferably, the processing of the machine code by the control unit also results in the control unit implementing the additional features of at least one of the advantageous embodiments of the operating procedure.

[0025] The problem is further solved according to claim 11 by a software-programmable control device for at least one upsetting stand of a continuous casting and rolling mill, wherein the continuous casting and rolling mill comprises, in addition to the upsetting stand, a continuous casting machine arranged upstream of the upsetting stand and a number of rolling stands arranged downstream of the upsetting stand, wherein the control device is programmed with a control program according to the invention, so that the control device controls the upsetting stand according to an operating method according to the invention.

[0026] The problem is further solved by a continuous casting and rolling mill with the features of claim 12. According to the invention, a continuous casting and rolling mill of the type mentioned at the outset is designed by, that the continuous casting and rolling mill has an upsetting stand arranged between the continuous casting machine and the number of rolling stands, that the upsetting stand has work rolls, that the continuous casting and rolling mill has a control device and that the control device is designed as a control device according to the invention. Brief description of the drawings

[0027] The properties, features, and advantages of this invention described above, as well as the manner in which they are achieved, will become clearer and more readily understandable in connection with the following description of an exemplary embodiment, which is explained in more detail in conjunction with the drawings. These drawings show: FIG 1 a continuous casting and rolling mill, FIG 2 a shrinking stand, a rolling stand and a section of a metal strand, FIG 3 a section of a metal strand, FIG 4 a section of a metal strand, FIG 5 a flow diagram, FIG 6 a section of a flat rolled stock, FIG 7 a section of a flat rolled stock, FIG 8 possible embodiments of a model, FIG 9 a structure of a travel curve, FIG 10 a control structure for a shrinking stand and FIG 11 a flow diagram. Description of the embodiments

[0028] According to FIG 1 A continuous casting and rolling mill includes a continuous casting machine 1. A metal strand 2 is cast using the continuous casting machine 1. The metal strand 2 is generally made of steel. It has a slab or strip format. In particular, the metal strand 2, in its cast, unrolled state, has a thickness d0 and - see FIG 2 - a width b0. The cast metal strand 2 passes through a shortening stand 3 and then through a number of rolling stands 4. The continuous casting machine 1 is thus located upstream of the shortening stand 3, and the rolling stands 4 are located downstream of the shortening stand 3. The number and configuration of the rolling stands 4 can be as required. After rolling in the foremost rolling stand 4, the cast metal strand 2 has a thickness d1, after rolling in the next rolling stand 4 a smaller thickness (not shown), and so on, until the cast metal strand 2 has a thickness dn after rolling in the last rolling stand 4. Once the metal strand 2 has passed through the last rolling stand 4, it is referred to below as flat rolled stock.

[0029] Starting from the continuous casting machine 1, the metal strand 2 passes through the upsetting stand 3 and the rolling stands 4 as an inseparable unit. Only after the last rolling stand 4 are individual sections of the flat rolled material cut off. This means that the rolling in the rolling stands 4 (and also in the upsetting stand 3) is continuous and takes place at the heat of the casting process.

[0030] The continuous casting machine 1 can be operated in such a way that, during operation – i.e., during the casting of the metal strand 2 – the narrow sides of a continuous casting mold of the continuous casting machine 1 are adjusted, thereby changing the width b0 of the cast metal strand 2. Specifically, this means – see the FIG 3 und 4 The width b0 is changed from an initial width bA to an final width bE. FIG 3 shows the case where the initial width bA is larger than the final width bE, while FIG 4 The reverse case shows that the initial width bA is smaller than the final width bE. In both cases, the metal strand 2 thus has a transition section 5 in which the width b0 of the metal strand 2 changes from the initial width bA to the final width bE. The change is essentially linear. In the cast, unrolled state, the transition section 5 typically has a length LO of several meters.

[0031] The continuous casting and rolling mill exhibits according to FIG 1 Furthermore, a control unit 6 is included. The control unit 6 is software-programmable. This is in FIG 1 The designation "µP" within the control unit 6 indicates this. The control unit 6 is programmed with a control program 7. The control program 7 comprises machine code 8, which can be executed by the control unit 6. Due to the programming of the control unit 6 with the control program 7, or due to the execution of the machine code 8, the control unit 6 controls at least the upsetting frame 3 according to an operating procedure, which is explained in more detail below.

[0032] The control unit 6 always controls the upsetting stand 3. It can also control other components of the continuous casting and rolling mill, in particular the continuous casting machine 1 and / or the rolling stands 4. However, in this case, the control of the upsetting stand 3 is the main focus. Therefore, the following section discusses this in conjunction with FIG 5 Only the control of the compression frame 3 is explained in more detail.

[0033] According to FIG 5 In step S1, the control device 6 is informed of the static and dynamic properties of the metal strand 2 that the cast metal strand 2 possesses before passing through the upsetting stand 3. The static and dynamic properties of the metal strand 2 generally include at least its width b0, its thickness d0, its chemical composition C, and its temperature T.

[0034] It is possible that at least some of the static and dynamic properties of the control device 6 are known inherently. For example, the control device 6 can also control the continuous casting machine 1, so that, due to the control of the continuous casting machine 1, the width b0 of the cast metal strand 2 is also known to it. However, it is also possible, and usually even preferred, if the control device 6 receives at least one of the static and dynamic properties of the metal strand 2 in the form of a metrologically determined quantity. In this case, the corresponding quantity is measured by means of a suitable measuring device 9 (see FIG 1 ) between the continuous casting machine 1 and the upsetting stand 3. Quantities that are preferably measured are in particular the width b0 and / or the temperature T of the metal strand 2.

[0035] The initial width bA and the final width bE must be known to the control unit 6 before the transition section 5 reaches the compression frame 3. If the distance between the measuring device 9 and the compression frame 3 is sufficiently large, the initial width bA and the final width bE can be derived from the measured widths b0. However, it is also possible for the control unit 6 to explicitly receive the initial width bA and the final width bE in a step S2. The initial width bA and the final width bE can be provided to the control unit 6, for example, by an operator 10 (see FIG 1 ) are specified.

[0036] In the context of FIG 5 It is assumed that the initial width bA and the final width bE have different values. In step S3, the control unit 6 therefore checks whether the final width bE is smaller than the initial width bA. If so, the control unit 6 executes steps S4 and S5. Otherwise, the control unit 6 executes steps S6 and S7.

[0037] In step S4, the control unit 6 determines an initial position gA. The initial position gA is intended to set the work rolls 11 of the upsetting stand 3 (see FIG 2 ) at the beginning of the passage of the transition section 5 through the upsetting frame 3, the metal strand 2 is positioned. The control unit 6 determines the initial position gA as a function of the initial width bA and the final width bE. The control unit 6 performs the determination using a model 12 (see FIG 1 ) within the control unit 6, depending on the static and dynamic properties of the cast metal strand 2 before it passes through the upsetting stand 3. The model 12, in turn, generates the control unit 6 based on its programming with the control program 7. In step S5, the control unit 6 sets an end position gE. The end position gE is intended to position the work rolls 11 against the metal strand 2 at the end of the transition section 5's passage through the upsetting stand 3. In step S5, the control unit 6 sets the end position gE to the final width bE.

[0038] In step S6, the control unit 6 sets the initial position gA to the initial width bA. In step S7, the control unit 6 determines the final position gE. The control unit 6 determines the final position gE as a function of the initial width bA and the final width bE. The control unit 6 performs the determination using model 12, taking into account the static and dynamic properties of the cast metal strand 2 before it passes through the upsetting stand 3.

[0039] In step S8, the control unit 6 determines a travel curve K for the work rolls 11 of the upsetting stand 3. This determination is based on the initial position gA and the final position gE. Since the control unit 6 determines the initial position gA or the final position gE based on the static and dynamic properties of the cast metal strand 2 before it passes through the upsetting stand 3, the control unit 6 also determines the travel curve K based on the static and dynamic properties of the cast metal strand 2 before it passes through the upsetting stand 3.

[0040] The control unit 6 executes steps S1 to S8 online. In particular, the execution of steps S1 to S8 is completed before the transition section 5 reaches the compression frame 3.

[0041] In step S9, the control unit 6 waits until the transition section 5 reaches the compression frame 3. A path tracking function can be implemented to determine this point in time. Implementing a path tracking function is generally known to those skilled in the art.

[0042] When transition section 5 reaches the upsetting stand 3, i.e., at the beginning of its passage through the upsetting stand 3, the control unit 6, in step S10, sets the work rolls 11 of the upsetting stand 3 – more precisely, their position g – to the initial position gA. Then, in step S11, the control unit 6 gradually sets the work rolls 11 of the upsetting stand 3 to the final position gE during the passage of transition section 5 through the upsetting stand 3, according to the travel curve K. The setting according to the travel curve K – like the setting to the initial position gA – can be implemented based on path tracking. Finally, at the end of the passage of transition section 5 through the upsetting stand 3, the control unit 6 moves the work rolls 11 of the upsetting stand 3 away from the metal strand 2 in step S12.The correct time can also be known to the control unit 6 based on path tracking.

[0043] Steps S9 to S12 ensure that the cast metal strand 2 is compressed in the transition section 5 – and only there. During the remaining time, the work rolls 11 of the compression stand 3 are retracted and therefore not in contact with the metal strand 2.

[0044] After passing through the upsetting stand 3, the metal strand 2 – this applies to the entire metal strand 2 and thus also to the transition section 5 – is fed to the rolling stands 4 and rolled there. The upsetting of the metal strand 2 in the transition section 5 therefore takes place before the rolling of the transition section 5 in the rolling stands 4.

[0045] The FIG 6 und 7 Figures 5 and 6 show a section of the flat rolled stock corresponding to the transition section 5 of the cast metal strand 2 and its width bn. They thus show the transition section 5 after rolling in the rolling stands 4. Since the metal strand 2 has now been rolled into the flat rolled stock, the transition section 5 now has a considerably greater length Ln.

[0046] FIG 6 shows the case where the initial width bA is larger than the final width bE, while FIG 7 The reverse case shows that the initial width bA is smaller than the final width bE. FIG 6 und 7 Solid lines show the width bn of the flat rolled material, dashed lines show the course of the angle g of the work rolls 11, i.e. the resulting travel curve K, and dash-dotted lines show the course of the width bn that would result without the upsetting of the transition section 5.

[0047] According to FIG 6 The determination of the final position gE and the travel curve K is carried out such that the width bn of the flat rolled stock in the area of ​​transition section 5 corresponds as closely as possible to a target width of the flat rolled stock after transition section 5. Conversely, according to FIG 7 the determination of the initial position gA and the travel curve K such that the width bn of the flat rolled material in the area of ​​the transition section 5 corresponds as closely as possible to a target width of the flat rolled material before the transition section 5.

[0048] As already mentioned, the control unit 6 controls the upsetting stand 3 in any case, but can also control the rolling stands 4. In this case, the control unit 6 determines, as necessary, at least for the rolling stand 4 immediately downstream of the upsetting stand 3, and preferably also for the other rolling stands 4, a change in the position of the work rolls of the respective rolling stand 4 and / or a change in the rolling speed of the respective rolling stand 4. The changes are determined by the control unit 6 in such a way that the thickness dn of the flat rolled material remains constant.

[0049] Model 12, by means of which the initial position gA or the final position gE and the travel curve K are determined, can be designed as required.

[0050] For example, model 12 can be used as shown in FIG 8 The process model 13 is designed to model the upsetting of the transition section 5 in the upsetting stand 3 and the rolling of the transition section 5 in the rolling stands 4 based on mathematical-physical equations of the forming processes taking place in the upsetting stand 3 and the rolling stands 4. In this case, the yield stress of the cast metal strand 2 is preferably determined for the upsetting stand 3 and the rolling stands 4 as part of the modeling and then taken into account when determining the initial position gA or the final position gE and the travel curve K. The determination of the yield stress itself can be carried out in particular by means of a neural network (not shown).

[0051] Alternatively, model 12 can be used as shown in FIG 8 The neural network 14 is configured as a neural network. In this case, the static and dynamic properties of the cast metal strand 2 are fed into the neural network 14, and the neural network 14 determines the initial position gA or the final position gE and the travel curve K. If the determination of the yield stress is required when using the neural network 14, it can alternatively be carried out within the neural network 14 itself or within a separate neural network (not shown).

[0052] Alternatively, model 12 can be used as shown in FIG 8 as an empirical model 15. In this case, determining the yield stress is usually not necessary.

[0053] The travel curve K can be determined as required. For example, the travel curve K can be determined by predefining a number of support points 16 distributed over the length LO of the transition section 5. The number of support points 16 is at least three and is usually a maximum of 10. The minimum number of support points 16 is determined because there must be a support point 16 at the beginning and at the end of the transition section 5, and at least one support point 16 must also be located in between. For example, the support points 16 can be arranged as shown in FIG 9 be evenly distributed over the length LO of the transition section 5. In the case of the support points 16, the control unit 6 first determines the respective position g at each support point 16. This determination is based on the width b0 given for each support point 16 and the smaller of the two values, initial width bA and final width bE. Between the support points 16, the travel curve K is defined by the design of FIG 9 defined according to a predefined functionality that depends only on the settings g at the support points 16. In the simplest case, linear interpolation takes place between adjacent support points 16.

[0054] According to FIG 10 The control unit 6 preferably implements an AWC 17 as part of the control of the upsetting stand 3 during the upsetting of the transition section 5. The AWC is supplied with the current position g of the work rolls 11 of the upsetting stand 3 as a setpoint. Furthermore, the AWC 17 is supplied with an expected approach force FE for this position g and the actual approach force F. Based on the deviation of the actual approach force F from the expected approach force FE, the AWC 17 determines a correction value δg for the position g, taking into account the stiffness of the upsetting stand 3. The work rolls 11 of the upsetting stand 3 are then applied to the metal strand 2 with the corresponding corrected value.

[0055] Preferably, after the casting of the metal strand 2 has been rolled in at least one of the rolling stands 4, the control device 6 receives a metrologically measured width b1, bn of the casting of the metal strand 2 behind this rolling stand 4. In this case, the continuous casting and rolling mill has a corresponding measuring device 18 behind the respective rolling stand 4 (see FIG 1 The measurement is performed iteratively. In the simplest case, the measured width is the width b1 behind the rolling stand 4, which is immediately downstream of the upsetting stand 3. However, it can also be the width behind another rolling stand 4, in particular the width bn behind the last rolling stand 4 of the casting mill. Since path tracking can also be readily implemented, the control unit 6 can easily determine which of the measured widths b1, bn refer to the transition section 5 and to which area of ​​the transition section 5 they refer. The operating procedure can therefore be based on the following in conjunction with FIG 11 The explained method can be improved. The procedure of FIG 11 The following is explained in connection with the width b1 of the cast metal strand 2 behind the rolling stand 4, which is immediately downstream of the upsetting stand 3. The procedure of FIG 11 However, it can also be carried out with the width behind another rolling stand 4, in particular also with the width bn behind the last rolling stand 4.

[0056] According to FIG 11 In step S21, the control unit 6 receives the corresponding metrologically measured width b1 of the cast metal strand 2. The corresponding metrologically measured width b1 refers to the transition section 5 and, within the transition section 5, to a specific area, for example, to one of the support points 16. In step S22, the control unit 6 determines a corresponding expected width b1E for this area of ​​the transition section 5. The expected width b1E can alternatively be determined by a pre-calculation or by a post-calculation.

[0057] In step S23, the control unit 6 determines a correction value δP for a model parameter P of model 12 based on a deviation between the measured width b1 and the expected width b1E. In step S24, the control unit 6 adjusts the model parameter P based on the determined correction value δP. The model parameter P is a parameter that the control unit 6 considers when determining the initial position gA or the final position gE and the travel curve K within the framework of model 12. The present invention has many advantages. In particular, output can be increased when the width changes, whether by increasing or decreasing it. The re-spreading during rolling in the rolling stands 4 – especially in the rolling stand 4 immediately downstream of the upsetting stand 3 – can be taken into account using model 12.This applies even though a so-called dog bone often forms during upsetting. If necessary, other parameters can also be taken into account within the framework of model 12, such as the casting speed.

[0058] Although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail by the preferred embodiments, the invention is not limited by the disclosed examples and other variations can be derived by the person skilled in the art without leaving the scope of protection of the invention as defined by the claims. Reference symbol list

[0059] 1 Continuous casting machine 2 Metal strand 3 Upsetting stand 4 Rolling stands 5 Transition section 6 Control device 7 Control program 8 Machine code 9, 18 Measuring devices 10 Operator 11 Work rolls 12 Model 13 Process model 14 Neural network 15 Empirical model 16 Support points 17 AWC b0, b1, bn, bA, bE, b1E Widths C Chemical composition d0, d1, dn Thicknesses F, FE Actuation forces g, gA, gE Positions K Trajectory curve L0, Ln Lengths P Parameters S1 to S2 4 Steps T Temperature δg, δP correction values

Claims

1. Operating method for a continuous casting-rolling plant, - wherein a metal strand (2) is cast in a continuous casting machine (1) of the continuous casting-rolling plant, - wherein the cast metal strand (2) is rolled into a flat rolled product, without first being divided into sections, from the casting heat in a number of roll stands (4) of the continuous casting-rolling plant, which are arranged downstream of the continuous casting machine (1), - wherein, during the casting of the metal strand (2), a width (b0) of the metal strand (2) is changed by the continuous casting machine (1) from an initial width (bA) to a final width (bE) such that the cast metal strand (2) has a transitional section (5) in which the width (b0) of the cast metal strand (2) changes from the initial width (bA) to the final width (bE), characterized in that: - before the transitional section (5) of the cast metal strand (2) is rolled in the roll stands (4), in an edger (3) of the continuous casting-rolling plant, said edger being arranged upstream of the roll stands (4), working rollers (11) of the edger (3) are positioned against the transitional section (5) as the transitional section (5) passes through the edger (3) so that the cast metal strand (2) is edged in the transitional section (5), - the working rollers (11) of the edger (3) are adjusted by a controller (6) that controls at least the edger (3) to an initial roller position (gA) as the transitional section (5) begins to pass through the edger (3), are adjusted gradually to a final roller position (gE) according to a displacement curve (K) while the transitional section (5) passes through the edger (3), and are moved away from the metal strand (2) when the transitional section (5) finishes passing through the edger (3), - if the initial width (bA) is larger than the final width (bE), the final roller position (gE) corresponds with the final width (bE), and the controller (6) determines the initial roller position (gA) and the displacement curve (K) online by means of a model (12) on the basis of static and dynamic properties that the cast metal strand (2) has before passing through the edger (3), so that a width of the flat rolled product in the region of the transitional section (5) corresponds as much as possible with a desired width of the flat rolled product after the transitional section (5), and - if the initial width (bA) is smaller than the final width (bE), the initial roller position (gA) corresponds with the initial width (bA), and the controller (6) determines the final roller position (gE) and the displacement curve (K) online by means of the model (12) on the basis of the static and dynamic properties that the cast metal strand (2) has before passing through the edger (3), so that the width of the flat rolled product in the region of the transitional section (5) corresponds as much as possible with a desired width of the flat rolled product before the transitional section (5).

2. Operating method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the static and dynamic properties of the metal strand (2) include its width (b0), its thickness (d0), its chemical composition (C), and its temperature (T).

3. Operating method according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the controller (6) receives at least one of the static and dynamic properties of the metal strand (2), in particular its width (b0) and / or its temperature (T), in the form of a variable measured between the continuous casting machine (1) and the edger (3).

4. Operating method according to Claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the model (12) is in the form of a process model (13), by means of which the edging of the transitional section (5) in the edger (3) and the rolling of the transitional section (5) in the roll stands (4) are modelled on the basis of mathematical-physical equations of the forming processes taking place in the edger (3) and in the roll stands (4).

5. Operating method according to Claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the model (12) is in the form of a neural network (14), to which the static and dynamic properties of the cast metal strand (2) are supplied and which determines the initial roller position (gA) or the final roller position (gE) and the displacement curve (K).

6. Operating method according to one of the above claims, characterized in that the displacement curve (K) is defined by a roller position (g) at each of a predefined number of predefined support points (16) along the transitional section (5), and in that the displacement curve (K) between the support points (16) is defined according to a specified functionality that is dependent only on the roller positions (g) at the support points (16).

7. Operating method according to one of the above claims, characterized in that the controller (6) implements an AWC (17) in the actuation of the edger (3) during edging of the transitional section (5).

8. Operating method according to one of the above claims, characterized in that after the cast metal strand (2) has been rolled in at least one of the roll stands (4), the controller (6) receives a measured width (b1) of the cast metal strand (2) downstream of this roll stand (4), and in that the controller (6) updates at least one model parameter (P) of the model (12) that is taken into account by the controller (6) when determining the initial roller position (gA) or the final roller position (gE) and the displacement curve (K) in the model (12), using a deviation of the measured width (b1) from a corresponding expected width (b1E).

9. Control program for a controller (6) of at least one edger (3) of a continuous casting-rolling plant, which has, in addition to the edger (3), a continuous casting machine (1), which is arranged upstream of the edger (3), and a number of roll stands (4), which are arranged downstream of the edger (3), wherein a metal strand (2) is cast in the continuous casting machine (1) and is rolled into a flat rolled product, without first being divided into sections, from the casting heat in the roll stands (4), wherein the control program comprises machine code (8) that can be processed by the controller (6), characterized in that the processing of the machine code (8) by the controller (6) has the effect that the controller (6) - receives an initial width (bA) and a final width (bE) of the metal strand (2) cast by means of the continuous casting machine (1), wherein the final width (bE) has a different value from the initial width (bA) such that the cast metal strand (2) has a transitional section (5) in which the width of the cast metal strand (2) changes from the initial width (bA) to the final width (bE), - determines an initial roller position (gA) or a final roller position (gE) of working rollers (11) of the edger (3) and also a displacement curve (K) for the working rollers (11) of the edger (3) online by means of a model (12) on the basis of static and dynamic properties that the cast metal strand (2) has before passing through the edger (3), - adjusts the working rollers (11) of the edger (3) to the initial roller position (gA) as the transitional section (5) begins to pass through the edger (3), adjusts them gradually to the final roller position (gE) according to the displacement curve (K) while the transitional section (5) passes through the edger (3), and moves them away from the metal strand (2) when the transitional section (5) finishes passing through the edger (3), so that the cast metal strand (2) is edged in the transitional section (5), - wherein, if the initial width (bA) is larger than the final width (bE), the final roller position (gE) corresponds with the final width (bE), and the controller (6) determines the initial roller position (gA) and the displacement curve (K) such that a width of the flat rolled product in the region of the transitional section (5) corresponds as much as possible with a desired width of the flat rolled product after the transitional section (5), and - wherein, if the initial width (bA) is smaller than the final width (bE), the initial roller position (gA) corresponds with the initial width (bA), and the controller (6) determines the final roller position (gE) and the displacement curve (K) such that the width of the flat rolled product in the region of the transitional section (5) corresponds as much as possible with a desired width of the flat rolled product before the transitional section (5).

10. Control program according to Claim 9, characterized in that the processing of the machine code (8) by the controller (6) has the effect that the controller (6) implements the additional features of at least one of Claims 2 to 8.

11. Software-programmable controller for at least one edger (3) of a continuous casting-rolling plant, which has, in addition to the edger (3), a continuous casting machine (1), which is arranged upstream of the edger (3), and a number of roll stands (4), which are arranged downstream of the edger (3), wherein the controller is programmed with a control program (7) according to Claim 9 or 10 so that the controller controls the edger (3) during operation according to an operating method according to one of Claims 1 to 8.

12. Continuous casting-rolling plant, - wherein the continuous casting-rolling plant has a continuous casting machine (1) in which a metal strand (2) is cast during operation, wherein a width (b0) of the metal strand (2) can be changed by the continuous casting machine (1) from an initial width (bA) to a final width (bE) such that the cast metal strand (2) has a transitional section (5) in which the width (b0) of the cast metal strand (2) changes from the initial width (bA) to the final width (bE), - wherein the continuous casting-rolling plant has a number of roll stands (4), which are arranged downstream of the continuous casting machine (1) and in which the cast metal strand (2) is rolled into a flat rolled product, without first being divided into sections, from the casting heat during operation, - wherein the continuous casting-rolling plant has an edger (3), which is arranged between the continuous casting machine (1) and the number of roll stands (4), - wherein the edger (3) has working rollers (11), - wherein the continuous casting-rolling plant has a controller (6), - wherein the controller (6) is designed as a controller according to Claim 11.

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