Hot rolling

The core process of heavy plate production is hot rolling. Heavy plates with proper dimensions, surface quality and flatness as well as with desired technological properties are produced on the four-high rolling stand.

Upon exit from the pusher furnace, the slabs are transported to the descaling unit. High pressure water removes the scale from top and bottom surfaces before rolling starts.

In a first phase the slabs are equalised, meaning they are rolled to a precise rectangular shape. Then they are rotated 90 degrees and rolled to the required width. After another 90 degree rotation the plates are rolled to the desired length and thickness.

In addition to size adjustment, the hot rolling process also influences material properties such as toughness and strength. With a precise chemical composition and a controlled deformation process at specific rolling temperatures, the grain size and the precipitation conditions in the material are influenced. This process is called thermomechanical rolling.

Rolling and cooling parameters are completely process controlled. Thus close size tolerances, good flatness, and good plate surfaces as well as reproducible material properties are achieved.

Modern technologies are used for measuring, recording and evaluation of the main process parameters. This method provides transparency of the production process and is the basis for continual improvements.