Computational Methods in Engineering

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A new method (thermal spokes) is proposed to simulate the guide rolls in FE analysis of the ring rolling process. So far this method is the only one, capable of calculating guide rolls reaction contact forces related to the stiffness of their adjustment mechanism. The method is simple to use, does not introduce further nonlinearities and could be used in any kind of FE formulations. The method is successfully employed in FE analysis of rectangular and T-section rings. The results of the thermal spokes method, a new analytical method based on lever arm principle with experimental results are in good agreements. This analysis shows that the guide rolls greatly affect the process. Keywords: ring rolling, finite element method, guide rolls, thermal spokes

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In this paper, properties of slab deformation in sizing press mill as one of the slab reduction processes in hot rolling mills have been evaluated using the elastoviscoplastic finite element method with explicit formulation. Effect of prarameters such as initial slab width and thickness, reduction, feed pitch, and anvil speed on factors such as dogbone formation, head and tail fishtail profile, width necking at the leading end of slab, and slab edge quality have been studied. Furthermore, a comparison has been made between the two common width reduction methods, i.e. Vertical Rolling (Edging) and sizing Press, in order to determine their differences and the efficiency of each process. The amount of width return (back spread), one of the most important factors related to width reduction efficiency and also slab formation after the first horizontal rolling pass, has been evaluated. Also, in order to validate the applied finite element method, the results obtained have been compared with experimental ones found in the literature. The results show that deformation in sizing press is more favourable and that its efficiency is better than that of the vertical rolling mill.