3D finite element modeling of edge and width drop behavior in hot rolling mill

Hot rough rolling is a conventional forming process in modern steelmaking practice in which high deformations are applied to a steel slab at high temperatures. Due to the sequence of edge rolling followed by rough rolling, so-called edge and width drop phenomena are observed at the head and tail of the slab. These unwanted effects govern a yield loss and need to be minimized as much as possible. By means of a finite element study this research aims to discover the main influencing parameters on the observed edge and width drop behavior. An overview and comparison of the relative contributions of several edge rolling settings are presented. The net edger roll opening is the most important influencing parameter on edge and width drop behavior. The effect of width and thickness of the slab on the edge drop is less strongly pronounced; only the thickness influences the width drop behavior.

Grain Coarsening Characteristics of Modern Nb Microalloyed Steels

Modern steelmaking technologies utilizing microalloyed steel designs have been responsible for enormous economic benefits for both the steelmaker and fabricator. What has not been acknowledged is the environmental benefit that high strength steels have produced in terms of reduced steel usage in major infrastructure projects. The judicial use of microalloying has the potential to further reduce total tonnage requirements while delivering enhanced operational performance and service life. Various projects around the world have begun to recognize these recent microalloying developments. This paper will present the grain coarsening behavior of the new generation of Nb bearing steels, which have been used in major international steel fabrication projects.