Rolling Mill Layout for Edge Heating and Thickness Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In rolling mill facilities, the simultaneous installation of thickness measurement and edge heating devices is hindered by the need for increased installation space, especially when electromagnetic wave heating devices are used, due to interference concerns and limited space availability near the rolling mill.
Innovation Solution
A compact rolling mill facility design that integrates a support part extending along the steel plate's width, with both a thickness measurement part and a heating part positioned on either side of the support part, allowing for simultaneous thickness measurement and edge heating without requiring excessive space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If both thickness measurement device and heating device are installed in the rolling mill facility, then both thickness measurement function and edge heating function are realized, but installation space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the thickness measurement device and heating device into a single integrated unit that performs both functions simultaneously. The measurement unit includes an X-ray generator and detector for thickness measurement, while the heating unit includes induction heating coils positioned to heat the steel plate edges. Both functions are housed in one structure, eliminating the need for separate installations and reducing overall space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device serves multiple purposes: it measures the thickness of the steel plate while simultaneously heating the edge portions to prevent edge cracks. This multi-functional approach allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require two separate devices, thereby reducing installation space while maintaining full operational capability.
2Temperature
If electromagnetic wave heating device is used, then heating function is achieved, but distance from thickness measurement device must be ensured to avoid electromagnetic wave influence, leading to increased installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a shield structure as an intermediary element between the electromagnetic wave heating device and the thickness measurement device. This shield blocks or attenuates the electromagnetic waves, preventing interference with the measurement device while allowing the heating function to operate effectively. This enables close positioning of both devices without the need for large separation distances.
3Adaptability or versatility
If space in the vicinity of rolling mill is limited, then installation flexibility is reduced, but both thickness measurement device and heating device need to be installed
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the thickness measurement device and heating device into one integrated unit, the patent eliminates the need for two separate installation locations. This single unit can be installed at one location in the rolling mill, providing both functions without requiring extensive space or complex positioning, thereby improving installation flexibility in limited spaces.
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 the realization of both thickness measurement and edge heating functions in a limited space, effectively suppressing edge cracks and maintaining measurement accuracy despite harsh environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray generator which emits X-ray along the thickness direction of the steel plate toward the steel plate and a detector disposed at an opposite side to the X-ray generator across the steel plate, and is configured to measure the thickness profile of the steel plate on the basis of the attenuation amount of X-ray detected by the detector
Implementation Method 2
a pair of inductors disposed so as to sandwich the opposite edge portions in the plate width direction of the steel plate without contact from the opposite sides in the plate width direction, and is configured to inductively heat the opposite edge portions of the steel plate by applying an electric current to the coils of the inductors
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A rolling mill facility includes: a support part extending along a plate width direction of a steel plate to be rolled; a thickness measurement part supported by the support part and configured to measure a thickness of the steel plate; and a heating part supported by the support part at positions at both sides across the thickness measurement part in the plate width direction and configured to heat both edge portions of the steel plate.