In a significant advancement for the steel manufacturing industry, researchers have unveiled a multi-mode control model designed to enhance the strip-finishing temperature in hot-strip mills. This innovative approach addresses the limitations of traditional single control strategies, which have struggled with precision and efficiency in an increasingly complex manufacturing landscape.
WANG Hai-yu, from the Automation Research Institute at Beijing Shougang Automation Information Technology Co., Ltd., spearheaded this research, which was recently published in the journal ‘工程科学学报’, translated as ‘Journal of Engineering Science’. The study highlights the pressing need for improved control mechanisms in hot-rolled strip manufacturing, where variations in temperature can lead to reduced product quality and increased production inefficiencies.
“By implementing a multi-mode control model using a quadratic programming algorithm, we can adapt to different types of steel and varying operational conditions,” WANG explains. This flexibility is crucial in a market that demands high-performance products with precise specifications. The model features three distinct control modes: regulation of speed, inter-stand cooling, and a combination of both, allowing for tailored responses to specific manufacturing scenarios.
The results of this research are compelling. The new model achieved a remarkable 99% hit rate on the strip-finishing temperature over three consecutive months, with an impressive control deviation of just ±20℃. Even more striking, a 97.2% hit rate was recorded with a tighter deviation of ±15℃. Such precision not only enhances the stability of the strip-rolling process but also significantly boosts the competitiveness of the final product in the marketplace.
The implications of this research extend beyond mere numbers. For construction professionals, particularly those involved in projects requiring high-quality steel, the ability to ensure consistent material properties can lead to safer, more reliable structures. Enhanced temperature control can also reduce waste and energy consumption, aligning with the industry’s increasing focus on sustainability.
Moreover, as WANG notes, “The fast response speed and high precision of our control model can revolutionize how manufacturers approach quality assurance in steel production.” This could pave the way for future developments in automation and smart manufacturing, where real-time data and adaptive systems become the norm.
As the construction sector continues to evolve, the integration of advanced technologies like this multi-mode control model will be crucial in meeting the demands of a competitive market. The research by WANG and his team not only highlights the potential for improved production processes but also reinforces the importance of innovation in maintaining industry standards.
For more information about WANG Hai-yu’s work, visit Automation Research Institute, Beijing Shougang Automation Information Technology Co., Ltd..
