Continuous Casting Strand Stiffness Measurement via Roller Force Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the solidification states of a cast strand in continuous casting plants are unreliable and discontinuous, as they are either temporary, local, or require material-specific models that need validation.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a device with measuring segments and points on rollers to directly or indirectly determine forces acting on them, using data processing units for continuous and reliable solidification state determination through force and deformation measurements, with analytical and statistical evaluations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If temporary or local measurement methods (pyrometer, bolt firing, internal crack determination) are used to determine solidification, then the measurement can be performed with simpler equipment, but the determination is not continuous and can only be used temporarily or locally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces temporary, local measurement methods (pyrometer, bolt firing, internal crack determination) with a continuous mechanical measurement system using force sensors on rollers. This substitution enables continuous monitoring of solidification states throughout the casting process while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous measurement of forces on rollers throughout the casting process, transforming the discontinuous, temporary measurements of prior art into a continuous monitoring system. The force sensors on rollers provide ongoing data about solidification states, enabling real-time control and guidance decisions.
2Measurement precision
If force measurement on lifting cylinders is used to determine solidification, then the measurement approach is simpler, but it requires separate models for each plant and material validation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal measurement system using force sensors on rollers that can be applied across different continuous casting plants and materials. By measuring forces at multiple points along the strand, the system provides material-independent data that eliminates the need for separate validated models for each plant-material combination, while maintaining high measurement precision.
3Reliability
If multiple measuring points are provided within the strand guide, then the solidification state determination becomes more reliable and continuous, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the strand guide into multiple measuring segments, each with its own force sensors. This segmentation allows continuous monitoring at different positions along the strand, providing reliable solidification state determination without creating a single complex centralized system. Each segment is relatively simple, but their combination provides comprehensive coverage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables continuous and reliable monitoring of solidification states, allowing for accurate guidance and cooling of the cast strand, improving operational efficiency by providing real-time data on solidification levels and distribution.
Implementation Method 1
at least one measuring point for the direct or indirect determination of the one or more force acting on the rollers is provided, with the at least one measuring point being arranged on a bearing block
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a continuous casting line (20) with a strand guider comprising casting strand segments (22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27) with rollers (2), wherein at least one of the casting strand segments is configured as measuring segment, wherein at least one or more measuring points for direct or indirect determining of the force acting on one or more rollers is provided, wherein also at least one measuring point is arranged on a bearing block (30), preferably between a bearing and the segment frame of the casting strand segment and a data-processing unit is provided which ascertains the stiffness states of the casting strand on the basis of the data of at least one measuring point.