Coordinated control in hot strip tandem rolling

The concept of coordinated control in hot strip tandem rolling is discussed. A new model, which extends to distributed variables, is described and a controller using a predictive control methodology is designed. The controller is used in a supervisory capacity and takes into account constraints. A technique for controlling gauge over the last two stands is explained and some simulation results are presented. Following this some results for the multi-variable control of gauge and crown are also shown. Finally, a new de-centralised GPC structure is introduced, to circumvent reliability, implementation algorithmic problems with the conventional formulation.