Hot strip flatness optimization by means of edge maskingin the ROT

Abstract

The control of temperature distribution across the strip is essential forthe hot strip flatness improvement. Hot strips of Arcelor in Avilès maydisplay wavy edge defects that are generated after the finisher and areattributed to residual stresses introduced by the accelerated coolingon the run-out-table. A first approach has established that the thermaldrop on the run-out-table has a significant effect on flatness, at theedges in particular. Among several systems that may control temperatureat the edges, the edge masking technology has been selected,considering the previous implementation on CSP mills. Wavy edgesare considerably removed or even suppressed on the operator side,while they are reduced but not eliminated on the drive side.