Optimization of Cold Rolling by Nonlinear Programming

Abstract

The problem of determining the optimum design parameters of single pass and multipass cold strip rolling is considered. The problem is formulated and solved as a constrained nonlinear programming problem by considering the radius of rolls, and the front and back tensions as design variables. Two objectives, namely, the minimization of the deflection of rolls and the minimization of the power required for rolling, are considered in the case of single pass rolling. The minimization of the sum of deflections of all the rolls lying in series is considered as the objective in the case of tandem mill rolling. Constraints are placed on the induced stresses, neutral angle and the angle of bite. Example problems are presented to illustrate the efficiency of the optimization procedure presented.