Compact Hot Rolling Train Looper Nesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rolling mills face inefficiencies in rolling efficiency and temperature loss during hot rolling due to the spacing and arrangement of roll stands and intermediate components, which affects the quality and length of the rolling train.
Innovation Solution
A compact rolling train design where the looper roller is positioned within the volume defined by the roll stand, allowing for closer arrangement of roll stands and integration of compact induction heating systems, reducing temperature loss and optimizing space for additional components like induction heaters, hold-down rollers, and cooling systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the looper roller is arranged outside the roll stand volume (conventional design), then there is sufficient space for the looper mechanism, but the distance between individual roll stands becomes larger, increasing overall train length and temperature loss
Solution Approach 1:
The looper roller is positioned within the volume enclosed by the roll stand, effectively nesting the looper mechanism inside the existing roll stand structure. This eliminates the need for separate external space for the looper, thereby reducing the distance between roll stands and the overall train length while maintaining all necessary functional clearances.
2Loss of energy
If roll stands are arranged closer together to reduce train length, then temperature loss is reduced and efficiency improves, but there is insufficient space for intermediate components like induction heating systems
Solution Approach 1:
By nesting the looper roller within the roll stand volume, the space between roll stands is minimized while still accommodating essential intermediate components such as induction heating systems. The compact arrangement allows these components to be positioned in the reduced inter-stand space without compromising temperature efficiency.
3Productivity
If the overall length of the rolling train is reduced, then productivity and temperature maintenance improve, but the arrangement of components becomes more complex and constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The looper roller is integrated within the roll stand volume, nesting multiple functions into a compact configuration. This reduces the overall train length and improves productivity by minimizing temperature loss, while the modular design maintains ease of operation and access for maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The looper roller is arranged parallel to the alignment of the work rolls, utilizing the lateral dimension within the roll stand volume rather than extending the train length in the longitudinal dimension. This dimensional reorganization reduces train length while maintaining functional effectiveness.
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
This design enhances rolling efficiency, reduces temperature loss, and allows for a more compact and flexible arrangement of components, improving the quality of the rolled metal strip and shortening the overall length of the rolling train.
Implementation Method 1
at least one induction heating system arranged between the roll stand and the at least one unit for heating the metal strip
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a rolling train for producing a metal strip (40), in particular a hot rolling train, comprising at least one rolling stand (10) for rolling the metal strip (40), at least one unit (10) adjacent to the rolling stand and at least one loop lifter (20), which is arranged between the rolling stand (10) and the adjacent unit and has a loop lifter roller (22) for regulating the strip tension and/or for balancing out mass flow disturbances, wherein the loop lifter roller (22) is arranged within the volume defined by one of the rolling stands. The invention also relates to a rolling train for producing a metal strip (40), in particular a hot rolling train, comprising at least one rolling stand (10) for rolling the metal strip (40), at least one unit (10) adjacent to the rolling stand and at least one lateral run-in guide (30), which is arranged between the rolling stand (10) and the at least one unit and is intended for introducing the metal strip into the downstream rolling stand, wherein the adjusting device (32) of the lateral run-in guide (30) is arranged within the volume defined by the rolling stand (10). In addition, the present invention relates to a rolling train for producing a metal strip (40), in particular a hot rolling train, comprising at least one rolling stand (10) for rolling the metal strip (40), at least one unit (10) adjacent to the rolling stand and at least one induction heater (50), arranged between the rolling stand (10) and the at least one unit, for heating the metal strip (40), wherein the induction heater (50) is formed compactly in the strip running direction.