Quarto Rolling Mill Roll Change With Single-Actuator Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Quarto stand rolling mills require complex and costly extraction systems involving multiple actuators and support equipment to change rolls, increasing installation costs and operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A method using a single actuator with a coupling head that connects to both work and backup rolls, allowing simultaneous extraction and insertion of all rolls, reducing the need for multiple actuators and support equipment by manually transitioning the coupling head between retracted and deployed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple actuators and support equipment are used for roll extraction, then the reliability of roll changing is improved, but the device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple extraction functions into a single actuator system. The coupling head integrates multiple coupling means that can sequentially engage with different rolls (work rolls and backup rolls), allowing one actuator to perform the extraction functions that previously required multiple actuators. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining the reliability of the roll changing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator is designed with a universal coupling head that can couple to and extract different types of rolls (work rolls and backup rolls) through multiple coupling means. This multi-functional design allows the same actuator to handle various extraction scenarios, replacing the need for specialized actuators for different roll types and reducing overall system complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple actuators are used for roll extraction, then the productivity of roll changing is improved, but the installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple actuator functions into a single actuator with a multi-functional coupling head. This reduces the number of components that need to be manufactured and installed, thereby lowering installation costs. The single actuator maintains productivity by sequentially engaging different coupling means to extract multiple rolls efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential extraction function from multiple actuators and consolidates it into a single actuator system. By taking out the core functionality and removing redundant actuators, the system achieves cost reduction while preserving the productivity needed for efficient roll changing operations.
3Device complexity
If a single actuator is used for roll extraction, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling head is segmented into multiple coupling means (first coupling means for work rolls, second coupling means for backup rolls). This segmentation allows the single actuator to handle different roll types through distinct coupling mechanisms, making the operation more intuitive and easier to control despite the simplified overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling means are designed to be dynamically engaged or disengaged based on the extraction needs. The first coupling means engages with work rolls, while the second coupling means engages with backup rolls. This dynamic coupling capability makes the operation of the single actuator system easier and more adaptable to different roll changing scenarios.
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 approach simplifies the roll-changing process, reduces installation costs, and enhances operational efficiency by using a single actuator for all roll extractions and insertions, while maintaining mechanical connections to facilitate the process without additional actuators for coupling.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator configured to push the rolls out of the roll stand of the rolling mill when the rolls are being extracted
Implementation Method 2
capable of moving in a direction parallel to the rolls, from a first retracted position wherein the coupling head is located on the drive side, to a second deployed position wherein the coupling head, having passed through the roll stand, is located on the operator side
Implementation Method 3
in the deployed state of the second coupling means, is in a deployed position wherein the said at least one movable element projects downwards under the effect of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for changing the rolls on a rolling mill for rolling a metal strip, carried out using a Quarto rolling mill, including lower and upper working and support rolls. The installation includes a system for extracting the working rolls and the support rolls, including: an actuator pushing the rolls out of the roll stand extraction; a coupling head, secured to the actuator, situated in a position of opening of the roll stand, including: a first coupler driving the chock or the end of the lower working roll, on the rolling-mill drive side; a second coupler driving the chock of the lower support roll, on the rolling-mill drive side. The first and second coupler allow successive extractions of the working rolls and then of the support rolls from the roll stand using the actuator of the extraction system. Also disclosed is a related rolling mill installation.