HRMM - software tool for prediction of metallurgical quality of hot rolled production as a component of the process control system

Capability of process control system (Level 2) to ensure final mechanical quality of hot rolled products depends significantly on its ability to predict their mechanical properties from real process data calculated or measured for process control purposes. Theoretical background, algorithms and results of verifications of the Hot Rolling Metallurgical Monitoring model (HRMM) that predicts final mechanical properties (hardness, ultimate tensile strength and yield stress) of hot rolled products (coils, plates, long products) after final cooling are presented together with general data requirements of this model. The physically based HRMM model is technologically independent and various ways of its implementation for purposes of hot rolling technology design and control are discussed (off-line predictors, on-line monitoring systems, on-line control systems). Experiences with the concrete HRMM implementations especially for off-line prediction of final mechanical properties of hot rolled wire rods and bars and for on-line metallurgical monitoring system in Hot Strip Mill Level 2 control system are presented.