Streamlining the Tandem Hot-Metal-Strip Mill: Threading Progress Stems from the Use of Advanced Control with Virtual Rolling

Previously, our work has investigated the use of a state-dependent Riccati equation (SDRE)-based method for the control of a fully threaded tandem hot-metal-strip mill, with highly successful results [1]-[4]. In this article, we present the results of further work, wherein the SDRE method is combined with a virtual processing technique to greatly simplify the control of the threading phase of the tandem hot-strip mill. This initial work has been highly successful, with a strong potential for extension to other industrial processes.