Practical finite element heat transfer modelling for hot rolling of steels

A transient 3D finite element model is described that has been developed to capture thermal variations of interest during hot rolling of steel. The model has been specifically developed to enable eventual use by plant personnel themselves. A series of validation exercises and case studies are presented to demonstrate the versatility of the code. Both existing and as yet untried rolling strategies can be investigated in terms of the likely thermal history that will be experienced anywhere in the strip. Data are provided from the stage when the slab first leaves the reheat furnace all the way up to the arrival of the strip at the runout table.