Method for the automated conversion of a roll stand from an initial configuration into a target configuration, system having a roll stand and a support device, replacement roll assembly for the automated conversion of a roll stand, and cold rolling method

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a system for the automated conversion of a roll stand (1) from an initial configuration into a target configuration, preferably from a quarto configuration having two driven work rolls into a quinto configuration, which comprises a non-driven work roll (6) and a driven intermediate roll (5). The method is carried out using at least one replacement roll assembly which comprises at least one work roll (6) and at least one intermediate roll (5), using at least one changing cassette which is designed to releasably receive a support roll assembly (41), and using at least one roll-changing carriage which can be moved relative to the roll stand (1). The method has the following method steps: adjusting the roll stand from a first operating position to a configuration position; removing a work roll of the initial configuration from the roll stand using the movable roll-changing carriage; inserting the changing cassette with the support roll assembly into the roll stand in the configuration position; locking the support roll assembly within the roll stand; removing the empty changing cassette from the roll stand, preferably using the roll-changing carriage; introducing the replacement roll assembly into the roll stand using the roll-changing carriage; and automatically adjusting the roll stand from the configuration position to a second operating position.

Description

[0001] Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0002] Method for the automated conversion of a rolling mill from an initial configuration to a target configuration, system with a rolling mill and a support device, interchangeable rolls, arrangement for the automated conversion of a rolling mill, and cold rolling process

[0003] The invention relates to a method for the automated conversion of a rolling mill stand from an initial configuration to a target configuration, preferably from a quarto configuration with two driven work rolls to a quinto configuration with a relatively slim, non-driven work roll.

[0004] The invention further relates to a system comprising a rolling stand and a pair of work rolls for rolling a metal strip and a support device, in particular for supporting a non-driven, slender work roll of the rolling stand in the quinto configuration.

[0005] The invention further relates to an exchange roll arrangement for the automated conversion of a rolling mill stand, in particular from a quarto configuration to a quinto configuration.

[0006] Finally, the invention relates to a cold rolling process using the system according to the invention.

[0007] Well-known 4-high and 6-high rolling mills are configured with respect to the dimensions of the work rolls to enable the rolling of the broadest possible product range in terms of thickness, width, and strength. 4-high rolling mills, in particular, i.e., so-called quarto mills, offer cost-effective and robust operation. In the future, material requirements will become more complex. DP steels, martensitic steels, and silicon grades are increasingly in demand, but still do not constitute the main part of production, so a separate, individually tailored mill is often necessary.

[0008] Page 1 Hemmerich & Kollegen states that this is not economically viable. Z-high or Sendzimir stands are known for stainless steels, SI strip, martensitic steels, etc. These have very small work rolls and can roll these products slowly under controlled conditions.

[0009] Conversions from 4-high to 6-high configurations or to z-high configurations are generally known in the state of the art.

[0010] Conversions from 4-high (Quarto) rolling stands to 5-high configurations (Quinto) are also known. This involves replacing one large work roll with two smaller ones, resulting in an odd-numbered roll set. If one work roll has a significantly smaller diameter than the opposite work roll, rolling is asymmetrical.

[0011] Finally, systems with a rolling stand and slender work rolls with lateral support devices are known, for example from EP 4 011 513 B1.

[0012] The known methods for converting and maintaining rolling mill stands are relatively complex, and particularly time-consuming. Typically, for maintenance purposes, the support systems are moved out of the movement range of the assembly that carries the intermediate roll and, if applicable, backup rolls, using the power generation devices of the support systems. In this way, the assembly, with the rolls it contains, can be removed from the rolling mill stand independently of the section rolls, serviced, and then reinserted. In principle, it is conceivable to proceed similarly during a conversion. However, converting from an initial configuration to a target configuration requires further time-consuming modifications, especially because adjustments to the drive system are necessary to accommodate the changed roll configuration.

[0013] Page 2 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0014] The invention is based on the objective of providing a method with which a simple and automated and, in particular, fast conversion of a rolling mill stand is possible.

[0015] The invention further aims to provide a system that enables simple, automatic and rapid conversion of a rolling mill stand.

[0016] Ultimately, the invention is based on the objective of providing an exchange roll arrangement for the automated conversion of a rolling mill.

[0017] Finally, another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for cold rolling a metal strip using the system according to the invention.

[0018] The problem underlying the invention is initially solved by a method for the automated conversion of a rolling mill stand with the features of claim 1.

[0019] Another aspect of the invention that is worthy of protection in itself relates to a system with a rolling stand and a pair of work rolls as well as with at least one support device for at least one work roll having the features of claim 10.

[0020] One of the sub-problems underlying the invention is solved by an exchange roller arrangement with the features of claim 21.

[0021] Finally, according to the invention, a method for cold rolling a metal strip with the features of claim 22 is provided. Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the respective dependent claims.

[0022] Page 3 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0023] The first aspect of the invention relates to a method for the automated conversion of a rolling mill stand from an initial configuration to a target configuration, preferably from a quarto configuration with two driven work rolls to a quinto configuration comprising one undriven work roll and one driven intermediate roll, using at least one exchange roll assembly comprising at least one work roll and at least one intermediate roll. The method is carried out using at least one exchange cassette designed for the detachable reception of a support roll assembly and using at least one roll exchange carriage movable relative to the rolling mill stand, the method comprising the following steps:

[0024] A) Adjusting the rolling stand from an initial operating position to a configuration position,

[0025] B) Removing a work roll of the initial configuration from the rolling stand using the movable roll change carriage,

[0026] C) Inserting the change cassette with the support roller arrangement into the rolling stand in the configuration position, preferably using the roll change carriage

[0027] D) Locking the support roller arrangement within the rolling stand,

[0028] E) Removing the empty exchange cassette from the rolling stand, preferably using the roll change carriage,

[0029] F) Inserting the exchange roll assembly into the rolling stand using the roll change carriage and

[0030] Page 4 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0031] G) Automated adjustment of the rolling stand from the configuration position to a second operating position.

[0032] The aforementioned procedural steps A) to G) are preferably carried out in the order listed. This list is not exhaustive.

[0033] The process is particularly preferred in a cold rolling mill for rolling steel strips, especially for rolling steel strips with a high silicon content, such as electrical steel sheets. The process is particularly suitable for the rapid and automated changeover of a cold rolling stand in a cold rolling mill configured for reversing or one-way operation with multiple passes.

[0034] A fast and automated changeover is ensured, in particular, by using a support device comprising a stationary part that remains in the rolling stand and a non-stationary part. The stationary part, remaining in the rolling stand, includes a support device that can be detachably connected to the support roll assembly. The non-stationary support roll assembly can be accommodated by a changeover cassette. During process step C), the changeover cassette containing the support roll assembly is inserted into the rolling stand. The support roll assembly is then unlocked from the changeover cassette and locked in the rolling stand in the quinto operating position. The changeover cassette can be inserted using the roll changer carriage, which is typically used for replacing work rolls for maintenance purposes.Such roller exchange carriages are generally known in the prior art, or at least in the operational state of the art of the applicant.

[0035] Adjusting the rolling stand from a first operating position (quarto operating position) to a configuration position includes, after a previous complete strip pass, a corresponding adjustment of the roll rise.

[0036] Page 5 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0037] Process step B) comprises removing a work roll in the initial configuration using the roll changer carriage. The work roll is preferably a driven work roll of the quarto configuration of the rolling stand. The rolling stand in the initial configuration expediently comprises two driven work rolls of the same diameter and two backup rolls with a larger diameter than the work rolls, wherein the work rolls of the quarto configuration may have an axial offset relative to the backup rolls in the direction of rolling.

[0038] The interchangeable cassette with the support roller arrangement is then inserted to support a smaller, preferably non-driven, work roll of the target configuration, in this case preferably a quinto configuration with a non-driven, slim work roll and a driven intermediate roll. The intermediate roll of the quinto configuration preferably has a first diameter range that corresponds to the diameter range of the work rolls in the quarto configuration.

[0039] Rollers typically have a maximum nominal diameter that corresponds to their as-delivered condition. Wear and abrasion resulting from use reduces this diameter to a permissible minimum. Preferably, the diameter of the intermediate roller in the quinto configuration lies within the lower range of the permissible abrasion, while the diameter of the work roller in the quarto configuration can encompass the full possible abrasion range.

[0040] Furthermore, the support roll assembly is locked within the rolling stand, and the exchange cassette is pulled out of the rolling stand empty, without the support roll assembly it contains, using the roll change carriage. Then, the exchange roll assembly, preferably comprising a smaller, non-driven work roll and a larger intermediate roll, is inserted into the rolling stand.

[0041] Page 6 Hemmerich & Kollegen introduced or inserted. Finally, the automated adjustment of the rolling stand from the configuration position to the second operating position, i.e., to the Quinto operating position, continues.

[0042] Advantageously, process step G) includes setting the axis offset of the undriven smaller work roll. The offset thus set is adjusted relative to the intermediate roll.

[0043] The intermediate roller can have a fixed offset to the backup roller.

[0044] In the method according to the invention, the undriven work roll of the target configuration is preferably supported in the second operating position by means of at least one support roll, preferably a single support roll of the support roll arrangement. Advantageously, at least one support device is provided for this purpose, comprising at least one support roll and at least one force-generating device that can be acted upon with a support force directed towards the work roll of the target configuration. At least one piston-cylinder arrangement actuated by a pressure medium can be provided as the force-generating device. It is particularly advantageous if the support device is designed such that it can be detachably coupled to the support roll arrangement remaining stationary in the rolling stand and includes corresponding means for locking the force-generating device to the support roll arrangement.

[0045] Furthermore, it is advantageous and expedient if, after process step B) and before process step F), the position of a drive-side spindle head mount of the rolling stand is automatically adjusted to the driven intermediate roll of the target configuration. This is particularly expedient because the now driven intermediate roll inevitably has a different position relative to the roll stand within the rolling stand.

[0046] Page 7 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0047] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the method, a support roller arrangement is used, in which the support roller arrangement comprises a single support roller and at least one counter bearing for the support rollers. The counter bearing is preferably designed as a comb roller, which forms two spaced-apart linear supports on the circumference of the support roller, thus securing the support roller against lateral displacement. The functionality of a comb roller can also be provided by a roller arrangement axially composed of several individual rollers separated from one another by spacers. Alternatively, the comb roller can be designed as a single roller with alternating diameters. Both embodiments, as well as functionally equivalent alternatives, are referred to synonymously as comb rollers.

[0048] The comb roller forms a "nest" that, while requiring minimal installation space, secures the support roller against displacement perpendicular to the axis of rotation. In this way, the support device can comprise a single support roller and a single counter-bearing roller, which can also have a relatively small diameter and therefore require very little installation space.

[0049] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the method, the undriven work roll of the interchangeable roll assembly is spring-mounted horizontally and / or vertically transversely to its axis. This makes it possible, in particular, to keep the work roll and the intermediate roll unloaded and at a distance from each other before assuming the second operating position, i.e., in the uninstalled position or in the configuration position of the rolling stand.

[0050] The problem underlying the invention is further solved by providing a system with a rolling stand with a pair of work rolls for rolling a metal strip and at least one support device, preferably for carrying out the method described above.

[0051] Page 8 Hemmerich & Colleagues comprising at least one roll arrangement, preferably as an exchange roll arrangement for converting the rolling stand into a target configuration, preferably into a quinto configuration, with a non-driven work roll and at least one driven intermediate roll, wherein the non-driven work roll and at least one larger driven intermediate roll are each mounted in mounting blocks, wherein the at least one support device comprises at least one support roller and at least one force generating device, which can be acted upon with a lateral support force directed towards the non-driven work roll, wherein the support device comprises a multi-part support roller arrangement, wherein the multi-part support roller arrangement comprises a stationary part remaining in the rolling stand and a part that can be temporarily inserted into the rolling stand and is designed as an exchange cassette for the support roller arrangement.

[0052] In the prior art, the arrangement of support rollers in a cassette assigned to the work roller has the disadvantage that the cassette has to be very heavy and complex in order to fit the support rollers and possibly additional stabilizing rollers into the limited installation space.

[0053] A permanent arrangement of the support rollers with their adjustment devices, also known in the prior art, requires a relatively large installation space within the limited frame area. Since the support rollers themselves require regular maintenance and grinding, accessibility for maintenance / removal tasks is very limited and necessitates a system shutdown. The support roller remains in the frame even when there is no immediate need for its use (e.g., soft material, use of a large work roller).

[0054] In contrast, the solution according to the invention has the advantage that a stationary part remains permanently in the rolling stand and, in particular, the wear-prone and soiling-prone components of the support roller arrangement are only temporarily introduced into the rolling stand.

[0055] Page 9 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0056] In order to ensure reliable support in the operating position of the rolling mill stand, it may be provided that the support device has means for releasable locking with the support roller arrangement.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention, the interchangeable cassette comprises means for releasably locking the support roller assembly, preferably in the form of a pneumatic locking device. The interchangeable cassette can include a hydraulically or pneumatically pivotable base frame as well as hydraulically or pneumatically actuated locking means.

[0058] In a further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention, the support roller assembly may comprise a single support roller and at least one counter bearing for the support rollers. The support roller assembly may, for example, be equipped with grease lubrication. It is also possible that the support roller is uncoated, while the work roller, particularly in the case of the interchangeable roller assembly, may be provided with a wear-resistant coating, for example, a tungsten carbide coating.

[0059] Preferably, the counter bearing for the support roller is designed as a comb roller or as a roller arrangement having a plurality of cylindrical sections with an axial offset, such that the support roller is supported between individual sections with parallel offset axes of rotation on at least two lines of its circumference.

[0060] Advantageously, the support roller has a smaller diameter than the undriven working roller.

[0061] Page 10 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0062] The cylindrical sections of the chamber roller can each have a larger diameter than the support rollers and each have the same diameter as the others.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention, it can be provided that a first, preferably upper, work roll has a first larger diameter and that a second, preferably lower, non-driven work roll has a second smaller diameter.

[0064] Advantageously, at least one driven intermediate roll is provided to have a first larger diameter range that corresponds to the diameter range of the first, preferably upper, work roll.

[0065] As mentioned above, it is advantageous if the non-driven working roller is made of a harder, wear-resistant material than the at least one support roller of the support roller arrangement.

[0066] A particularly advantageous variant of the system is characterized by the fact that the rolling stand comprises at least one spindle head holder for the temporary, rotationally fixed mounting of the drive-side heads of the spindles of the driven rolls. The spindle head holder has at least one first and one second chuck, each accommodating a first and second spindle head and operable in an opening and closing motion. The first and / or second chucks are vertically adjustable relative to each other in their installed position, and preferably, the adjustability of the first and / or second chuck is independent of the opening and closing motion. This makes it possible to fully automate the conversion or change of the drive configuration of the rolling stand from the quarto configuration to the quinto configuration.This is particularly useful, as mentioned above, to adapt the rolling mill stand to the changed conditions.

[0067] Page 11 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0068] To adjust the position of the driven lower roller, i.e., the driven intermediate roller.

[0069] The invention further advantageously relates to an exchange roll arrangement for the automated conversion of a rolling mill stand, in particular from an initial configuration to a target configuration, preferably from a quarto configuration with two driven work rolls to a quinto configuration, especially for use with the method described above, wherein the exchange roll arrangement comprises at least one smaller, non-driven work roll and at least one larger, driveable intermediate roll, wherein the non-driven work roll and at least one larger, driveable intermediate roll are each mounted in mounting blocks. Advantageously, the non-driven work roll is resiliently mounted horizontally and / or vertically within the mounting blocks of the intermediate roll, transversely to its axis.

[0070] The invention further comprises a method for cold rolling a metal strip, in particular a steel strip, using at least one rolling stand with a plurality of rolling passes in reversing or one-way operation, comprising the automated conversion of at least one rolling stand from a quarto configuration with two driven work rolls to a quinto configuration comprising one undriven work roll and one driven intermediate roll, using at least one exchange roll arrangement comprising the at least one undriven work roll and the at least one driven intermediate roll, wherein the method is characterized in that the automated conversion takes place during operation of the rolling stand. The conversion can be carried out both with and without metal strip in the rolling stand.In reversing operation, for example, a changeover can be carried out during a pass of a metal strip unwound from a coil after at least one first rolling pass and before at least one last rolling pass.

[0071] Page 12 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0072] Especially when the support roller is already in the rolling stand, it can be changed with the strip still in the stand. If the support roller is also changed, the stand area should be clear of metal strip. For new installations, the configuration can be designed to allow for a support roller change with metal strip still in the stand area.

[0073] An advantageous embodiment of the method is characterized by the fact that the automated conversion takes place in less than 30 minutes, preferably in less than 20 minutes, and most preferably in less than 10 minutes.

[0074] These times include the automated sequences according to steps A) to G).

[0075] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are explained below with reference to an exemplary embodiment shown in the drawings.

[0076] They show:

[0077] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of the roll arrangement of a rolling mill with a quarto configuration.

[0078] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the roll configuration of a quinto rolling mill according to the invention.

[0079] Figure 3 shows an exchange roller arrangement according to the invention,

[0080] Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of the spring-loaded bearing of the non-driven work roll of the exchange roll arrangement.

[0081] Page 13 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0082] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a rolling mill stand according to the invention with a support device engaged with the lower work roll.

[0083] Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of the rolling mill stand according to the invention in the quarto configuration,

[0084] Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of the rolling mill stand according to the invention in the quinto configuration,

[0085] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of an adjustable spindle head support of the rolling mill stand according to the invention.

[0086] Figure 9 shows a schematic perspective representation of the support roller arrangement according to the invention.

[0087] Figure 10 shows a schematic perspective view of the support device according to the invention with a coupled support roller arrangement.

[0088] Figure 11 shows a side view of the interchangeable cassette with the support roller arrangement inserted into it,

[0089] Figure 12 shows a top view of the change cassette with the support roller arrangement inserted into it and

[0090] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a roller changing carriage as part of the system according to the invention.

[0091] Figures 1 and 2 comprise a basic comparison of a rolling mill stand 1 for use with the method according to the invention in an initial configuration shown in Figure 1 and in one shown in Figure 2.

[0092] Page 14 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0093] Target configuration. The initial configuration corresponds to a 4-high configuration, also known as a quarto configuration, whereas the target configuration corresponds to a 5-high configuration, also known as a quinto configuration. In the quarto configuration, the rolling stand 1 comprises two backup rolls 2 with a relatively large diameter and two driven upper and lower work rolls 3 and 4, each with the same smaller diameter. The illustration in Figures 1 and 2 particularly demonstrates the offset of the work rolls 3 and 4 in the quarto configuration relative to the backup rolls 2.

[0094] In the quinto configuration shown in Figure 2, the rolling stand 1 comprises a driven intermediate roll 5, a non-driven and relatively slender lower work roll 6, and the upper work roll 3 of the initial configuration, which extend between the backup rolls 2. The lower work roll 6 of the quinto configuration has a smaller diameter than the driven intermediate roll, which has a diameter equal to that of the upper work roll 3. The work roll 6 of the quinto configuration has an axial offset relative to the upper work roll 3 and the intermediate roll 5 in the rolling direction. The relatively small work roll 6 is supported against the rolling direction, indicated by the arrows in Figures 1 and 2, by means of a backup roll support 41, as described below.

[0095] In the method according to the invention, a conversion of the rolling stand 1 from the configuration shown in Figure 1 to the configuration shown in Figure 2 is provided, wherein the exemplary conversion method described comprises the removal of the lower work roll 4 of the quarto configuration by means of a roll change carriage 60, which is shown in Figure 13. The configuration can in principle also be transferred to the upper work roll.

[0096] After removing the lower work roll 4 of the quarto configuration, the in

[0097] Figure 9 shows a support roller arrangement 41 with a change cassette 42 (Figures

[0098] Page 15 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0099] 11 and 12) are moved into the rolling stand 1. The support roll assembly 41 is arranged in the exchange cassette 42 and can be hydraulically locked and unlocked, as will be described below. After the exchange cassette 42 has been moved into the rolling stand 1, the support roll assembly 41 is unlocked in the exchange cassette 42. The exchange cassette 42 is pulled out of the rolling stand 1 by means of the roll change carriage 60, while the support roll assembly 41 remains in the rolling stand 1. In a further process step, the work roll 4 of the quarto configuration is replaced by an exchange roll assembly 20 (Figures 3 and 4), which is shown in Figure 3. Finally, the rolling stand is moved into a quinto operating position, which includes supporting the work roll 6 of the quinto configuration of rolls by means of a support device 40, which can be detachably locked to the support roller arrangement 41.

[0100] The exchange roll assembly 20 comprises mounting blocks 21 within which the intermediate roll 5 is mounted. The non-driven, slender work roll 6 is mounted in mounting blocks 22, which in turn are mounted in the mounting blocks 21 of the intermediate roll 5. The mounting blocks 21 of the intermediate roll 5 are designed in the quarto configuration according to the dimensions of the regular work roll mounting blocks and, in their installed position, occupy the same position within the roll stand 9 of the rolling mill 1. The mounting blocks 22 of the work roll 6 are loosely enclosed on at least two sides by the mounting blocks 21 of the intermediate roll 5. As shown in Figure 3, the mounting blocks 21 of the intermediate roll have pocket-shaped receptacles 24 within which the mounting blocks 22 of the work roll 6 are resiliently mounted both vertically and horizontally. Spring elements 23 can be provided for this purpose, which are arranged within the receptacles 24.In this way, the work roller 6 and the intermediate roller 5 are kept at a distance from each other when unloaded.

[0101] The intermediate roller 5 is designed as a driveable intermediate roller 5 and includes a roller hit which can be rotated by means of a drive spindle of a drive.

[0102] Page 16 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0103] In order to take into account the fact that the spindle head 7 of the intermediate roll 5 (Figure 8) assumes a different position relative to the drive spindles of the roll drive when converting the rolling stand 1 from the initial configuration to the target configuration according to Figure 2, a hydraulically adjustable spindle head holder 30 is provided on the drive side of the rolling stand 1, which is shown in Figure 8.

[0104] Figure 8 shows, by way of indication, the spindle head 7 of the intermediate roll 5 and a spindle head 8 of the upper work roll 3. The spindle head support 30 comprises a first upper support (not shown) and a second lower support 31. At least the lower support 31 is guided hydraulically and vertically adjustable on the roll stand 9 of the rolling mill 1. The support 31 comprises two hydraulically adjustable clamping jaws 32, which form a chuck for a spindle head 7, 8. The clamping jaws 32 are pivotally connected to the support 31 and can be opened and closed in the direction of an opening and closing movement of the chuck. In the closed position (not shown), the clamping jaws 32 with clamping cups 33 grip the respective spindle head 7, 8.When converting the rolling stand 1 from the initial configuration to the target configuration, an automated vertical adjustment of the lower holder 31 on the roll stand 9 of the rolling stand 1 is provided such that the rolling stand 1 can be adapted to the changed position of the now driven intermediate roll 5.

[0105] The following describes the configuration of the support device 40 and the exchange cassette 42 with the support roller assembly 41. Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the system comprising the rolling stand 1 in the quinto configuration with the support device 40, in which, in the position shown in Figure 5, the support device 40 is engaged with the work roll 6 of the exchange roll assembly 20. In this position, the support device 40 is coupled and locked to the support roller assembly 41.

[0106] Page 17 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0107] The support device 40 is also designed in multiple parts. This includes the support roller assembly 41 shown in Figure 9, which is a part of the support that can be temporarily inserted into the rolling stand 1 and is inserted by means of the interchangeable cassette 42. The support roller assembly 41 can be connected to another part of the support device 40, which is permanently arranged in the rolling stand 1 and is in the form of the actively acting force-generating device.

[0108] As can be seen particularly in Figure 10, the support device 40 comprises two cylinders 43, which can be pressurized with a pressure medium, preferably a hydraulic fluid, for adjusting the support roller assembly 41 in the rolling stand 1. The cylinders 43 act on a yoke 44 to which the support roller assembly 41 is detachably attached by means of pivotable locking hooks 45. In the locked position, the locking hooks 45 engage in correspondingly designed locking pins 46 of a holder 47 for the support roller assembly 41. By adjusting the cylinders 43, the support roller assembly 41 can be positioned precisely with respect to the roll diameters and / or the force can be adjusted precisely with respect to the offset of the work roll 6 to be set.

[0109] The support roller assembly 41 comprises a single support roller 48, which is supported by a comb roller 49 as a counter bearing. The comb roller 49 comprises first and second annular disc sections of the same diameter with axes of rotation offset from each other, so that the individual sections of the comb roller 49 bear against the circumference of the support roller 48 at various points along a line, thus forming a nesting structure that secures the support roller against any displacement transverse to the axis of rotation along two lines spaced apart around its circumference. It is understood that the locking and unlocking of the support roller assembly 41 on the power generation device is automated.

[0110] Figures 11 and 12 show the change cassette 42 with the support roller assembly 41 arranged and locked inside it. The bracket 47 of the support roller assembly

[0111] Page 18 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0112] 41 comprises end-face arranged and pneumatically extendable locking pins 50 which, in a locking position, engage in recesses 51 of the interchangeable cassette 42 and enable automated locking of the support roller arrangement 41 in the interchangeable cassette as well as automated unlocking.

[0113] Figure 13 shows the roll change carriage 60, which has three compartments 61 arranged parallel to each other for receiving work rolls or the change cassette 42. Each compartment 61 comprises a transport carriage that can be moved in the direction of the Y-axis shown in Figure 13, both in and against the direction of a drive side of the rolling stand 1. The individual compartments can also be moved laterally in the direction of the X-axis, so that one or the other compartment 61 can be selectively aligned parallel to the rolling direction with respect to the rolling stand 1.

[0114] Page 19 Hemmerich & Colleagues

[0115] Reference symbol list

[0116] 1 rolling mill

[0117] 2 support rollers

[0118] 3 upper working roller

[0119] 4 lower work rolls of the quarto configuration

[0120] 5 Intermediate roller

[0121] 6 non-driven work rollers

[0122] 7 Spindle head of the intermediate roller

[0123] 8 Spindle head of the upper work roller

[0124] 9 roller stands

[0125] 20 interchangeable roller arrangement

[0126] 21 intermediate roller components

[0127] 22 mounting pieces of the non-driven work roll

[0128] 23 springs

[0129] 24 mounts for the bearing blocks

[0130] 25 roller change cassette

[0131] 30 Spindle head holder

[0132] 31 lower holder

[0133] 32 clamping jaws

[0134] 33 clamping shells

[0135] 40 Support device

[0136] 41 Support roller arrangement

[0137] 42-piece cassette

[0138] 43 cylinders

[0139] 44 yoke

[0140] 45 locking hooks

[0141] 46 locking pins

[0142] 47 bracket

[0143] 48 Support roller

[0144] 49 Comb roller

[0145] Page 20 Hemmerich & Colleagues Locking Pins Recesses Roller Change Carriage Fan

[0146] Page 21

Claims

Hemmerich & Colleagues Patent claims 1. Method for the automated conversion of a rolling mill stand (1) from an initial configuration to a target configuration, preferably from a quarto configuration with two driven work rolls (3, 4) to a quinto configuration comprising a non-driven work roll (6) and a driven intermediate roll (5), using at least one exchange roll arrangement (20) comprising at least one work roll (6) and at least one intermediate roll (5), using at least one exchange cassette (42) designed for the detachable reception of a support roll arrangement (41), and using at least one roll change carriage (60) movable relative to the rolling mill stand (1), wherein the method comprises the following process steps: A) Adjusting the rolling stand (1) from a first operating position to a configuration position, B) Removing a work roll (4) of the initial configuration from the rolling stand (1) using the movable roll change carriage (60), C) Inserting the change cassette (42) with the support roller arrangement (41) into the rolling stand (1) in the configuration position, preferably using the roll change carriage (60), D) Locking the support roller assembly (41) inside the rolling stand (1), E) Removing the empty change cassette (42) from the rolling stand (1), preferably using the roll change carriage (60), F) Inserting the exchange roll assembly (20) into the rolling stand (1) using the roll change carriage (60) and Page 22 Hemmerich & Colleagues G) automated adjustment of the rolling stand (1) from the configuration position to a second operating position.

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that method step G) comprises adjusting an axis offset of the non-driven work roll (6) in the target configuration.

3. Method according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the non-driven work roll (6) of the target configuration is supported in the second operating position by means of at least one support roller (48), preferably with a single support roller (48) of the support roller arrangement (41).

4. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that between process steps B) and F) an automated adjustment of the position of a drive-side spindle head mounting (7) of the rolling stand (1) to the driven intermediate roll (5) of the target configuration is included.

5. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least one support device (40) is provided, comprising at least one support roller (48) and at least one force generating device, which can be acted upon with a support force directed in the direction of the work roller (6) of the target configuration.

6. Method according to claim 5, characterized in that the support device (40) has means for releasable locking with the support roller arrangement (41).

7. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the support roller arrangement (41) comprises a single support roller (48) and at least one Page 23 Hemmerich & Colleagues The counter bearing for the support roller (48) is comprised, wherein the counter bearing is preferably designed as a comb roller (49) or as a roller arrangement.

8. Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the non-driven work roll (6) of the exchange roll arrangement (20) is resiliently mounted horizontally and / or vertically transversely to its axis.

9. Method according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the work roll (6) and the intermediate roll (5) of the exchange roll arrangement (20) are held at a distance from each other without load in the uninstalled position or in the configuration position of the rolling stand (1).

10. System with a rolling stand with work rolls (3, 4) for rolling a metal strip and at least one support device (40), preferably for carrying out the method according to one of claims 1 to 9, comprising at least one roll arrangement, preferably as an exchange roll arrangement (20) for converting the rolling stand (1) into a target configuration, preferably into a quinto configuration, with a non-driven work roll (6) mounted in two mounting blocks and at least one driven intermediate roll (5), which are mounted in two mounting blocks that can be inserted into and removed from the rolling stand in the direction of a longitudinal axis, wherein the at least one support device (40) comprises at least one support roller (48) and at least one force-generating device (43) that can be acted upon with a lateral support force directed towards the non-driven work roll (6),wherein the support device (40) comprises a multi-part support roller arrangement (41), wherein the multi-part support roller arrangement (41) comprises a stationary part remaining in the rolling stand (1) and a part that can be temporarily inserted into the rolling stand (1) and which, together with an interchangeable cassette (42), can be inserted into the rolling stand in the direction of a longitudinal axis. Page 24 Hemmerich & Colleagues 11. System according to claim 10, characterized in that the support device (40) has means for releasable locking with the support roller arrangement (41).

12. System according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that the exchange cassette (42) comprises means for releasable locking of the support roller arrangement (41), preferably as a pneumatic locking device.

13. System according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the support roller arrangement (41) comprises a single support roller (48) and at least one counter bearing for the support roller (48).

14. System according to claim 13, characterized in that the counter bearing is designed as a comb roller (49) or a roller arrangement, which preferably has a plurality of cylindrical sections with an axial offset, such that the support roller (48) is supported between individual sections with parallel offset axes of rotation at at least two points on its circumference.

15. System according to one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that the support roller (48) has a smaller diameter than the non-driven working roller (6).

16. System according to one of claims 14 or 15, characterized in that the cylindrical sections of the comb roller (49) or the roller arrangement each have a larger diameter than the support roller (48) and each have the same diameter as the other.

17. System according to one of claims 10 to 16, characterized in that a first, preferably upper, working roll (3) has a first larger Page 25 Hemmerich & Colleagues has a diameter, and that a second, preferably lower, non-driven work roll (6) has a second smaller diameter.

18. System according to claim 17, characterized in that at least one driven intermediate roll (5) has a first diameter range which lies within the diameter range of the first, preferably upper, work roll (3).

19. System according to one of claims 10 to 18, characterized in that the non-driven working roller (6) is made of a harder, wear-resistant material than the at least one support roller (48) of the support roller arrangement (41).

20. System according to one of claims 10 to 19, characterized in that the rolling stand (1) comprises at least one spindle head holder (30) for the temporary rotationally fixed mounting of drive-side heads of spindles of the driven rolls, wherein the spindle head holder (30) has at least one first and one second chuck, each of which accommodates a first and second spindle head (7, 8) and is actuable in the sense of an opening and closing movement, wherein the first and / or second chuck is designed to be vertically adjustable in its position relative to each other in the installed position and wherein the adjustability of the first and / or second chuck is preferably independent of the opening and closing movement.

21. Exchange roll arrangement (20) for the automated conversion of a rolling mill stand (1), in particular from an initial configuration to a target configuration, preferably from a quarto configuration with two driven work rolls (3, 4) to a quinto configuration, in particular for use with the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, with at least one smaller, non-driven work roll (6), wherein the non Page 26 Hemmerich & Kollegen driven work roll (6) and at least one larger driven intermediate roll (5), each mounted in mounting blocks (22, 21), characterized in that the non-driven work roll (6) with its mounting blocks (22) is resiliently mounted horizontally and / or vertically within the mounting blocks (21) of the intermediate roll (5) transversely to its longitudinal axis.

22. A method for cold rolling a metal strip, in particular a steel strip, using at least one rolling stand (1) with a plurality of rolling passes in reversing or one-way operation, comprising the automated conversion of at least one rolling stand (1) from a quarto configuration with two driven work rolls (3, 4) to a quinto configuration comprising a non-driven work roll (6) and a driven intermediate roll (5), using at least one exchange roll arrangement (20) comprising the at least one non-driven work roll (6) and the at least one driven intermediate roll (5), characterized in that the automated conversion is carried out during the rolling operation with or without metal strip in the stand area.

23. Method according to claim 22, characterized in that the automated conversion takes place in less than 30 minutes, preferably in less than 20 minutes, most preferably in less than 10 minutes.

24. Method according to one of claims 22 or 23, characterized in that the conversion is carried out automatically using the method according to one of claims 1 to 10.

25. Method according to any one of claims 22 to 24 using a system according to any one of claims 10 to 20. Page 27

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