A Finite Element Approach to Transient Thermal Analysis of Work Rolls in Rolling Process

Abstract

The three-dimensional transient thermal problem of work rolls in the entire rolling process has been formulated. It includes the time-varying boundary conditions specified at the roll surface taking the schedule of both rolling and idling cycles into consideration. The corresponding finite element equations are derived and solved by the Runge-Kutta-Verner method. The finite element solutions indicate that the temperature variations in the circumferential direction are overwhelming. Case studies unveil the thermal characteristics of the work rolls in various kinds of mill operations. The effects of the specific heat and the angular velocity of the work rolls are presented. Numerical results are compared with Guo’s analytical solutions. [S1087-1357(00)01604-X]