Modelling heat transfer during hot rolling of steel strip

The heat transfer conditions encountered during hot rolling of steel strip are modelled; it is assumed that the strip loses heat by radiation and convection to the atmosphere, conduction to the work rolls, forced convection and boiling of the water employed in descaling, whereas it gains heat during deformation. Conduction within the stock is calculated by means of a two-dimensional explicit finite-difference algorithm. The simulation is conducted assuming the existence of an isolating oxide layer, which controls the conduction to the work rolls during the reduction. Results from the simulations compare well with data obtained during actual production in an industrial mill.