Influence of Work Hardening on the Surface of Backup Rolls for a 4-High Rolling Mill Fractured during Rolling Campaign

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Jul 23, 2025
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Work solidifying plays a vital part in the execution and life span of Backup Rolls in 4-high rolling plants. These fundamental components bolster the work rolls and disperse the rolling drive over the process stand. Amid a rolling campaign, the surface of items experiences critical stretch and strain, driving to work solidifying. This marvel can significantly change the mechanical properties of the roll surface, possibly coming about in untimely break and disappointment. Understanding the impact of work solidifying on Backup Roll surfaces is imperative for optimizing roll execution, amplifying operational life, and keeping up item quality in metal handling businesses. By analyzing the components of work solidifying, identifying early signs of weariness, and actualizing moderation procedures, producers can upgrade the unwavering quality and productivity of their rolling operations, eventually moving forward efficiency and decreasing exorbitant downtime.

backup rolls​​​​​​​

Mechanisms of work hardening in backup rolls

Work hardening in backup rolls is a complex process that occurs due to the repetitive stress cycles experienced during rolling operations. As the rolls repeatedly compress and release, the metal structure at the surface undergoes plastic deformation, leading to an increase in dislocation density. This microstructural change results in higher strength but reduced ductility, making the roll surface more susceptible to cracking and fatigue failure.

Microstructural changes during work hardening

The microstructure of the product materials, typically high-carbon steel or alloyed cast iron, transforms significantly under the influence of work hardening. The initial microstructure, often consisting of pearlite and carbides, experiences strain-induced martensitic transformation. This phase change contributes to the increased hardness and brittleness of the roll surface.

Stress distribution and its impact

The push conveyance over the item surface is not uniform, with crest stresses happening at particular areas decided by roll geometry and rolling conditions. These high-stress zones are inclined to quickened work solidifying, making potential powerless focuses for break start and engendering. Understanding this push conveyance is vital for foreseeing and avoiding roll disappointments.

Detecting early signs of roll surface fatigue

Early location of surface weariness in Backup Rolls is basic for anticipating disastrous disappointments and optimizing roll support plans. Different strategies and innovations are utilized to screen the condition of roll surfaces and recognize signs of looming failure.

Non-destructive testing techniques

Advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) strategies play a crucial part in evaluating the wellbeing of the items. Ultrasonic testing can uncover subsurface surrenders and changes in fabric properties due to work solidifying. Whirlpool current testing is compelling for identifying surface and near-surface splits, whereas attractive molecule assessment can recognize surface-breaking absconds. Normal application of these NDT strategies permits for the early recognizable proof of potential disappointment points.

Surface roughness monitoring

Changes in surface roughness can indicate progressive work hardening and fatigue. Periodic measurements using precision roughness meters can track these changes over time. An unexpected increase in surface roughness may signal the onset of micro-cracking or spalling, warranting closer inspection or preventive maintenance.

Thermal imaging and temperature monitoring

Work solidifying and weakness can lead to localized temperature increments amid operation. Infrared warm imaging cameras can identify these hot spots, which may demonstrate ranges of over the top stretch or looming disappointment. Nonstop temperature observing frameworks can caution administrators to unusual warm designs, permitting for convenient mediation.

Strategies to mitigate work hardening effects

Mitigating the effects of work hardening on backup rolls involves a combination of material selection, operational practices, and maintenance strategies. Implementing these approaches can significantly extend roll life and improve overall mill performance.

Advanced material selection and surface treatments

Selecting backup roll materials with optimized chemical compositions and microstructures can enhance resistance to work hardening. High-chromium steel grades or composite rolls with wear-resistant outer layers offer improved durability. Surface treatments such as nitriding or high-velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) coating can create a protective layer that resists work hardening and extends roll life.

Optimized rolling practices

Adjusting operational parameters can help minimize work hardening effects. This includes optimizing roll force distribution, implementing effective cooling strategies, and managing roll change intervals. Computer-aided roll pass design can help distribute stress more evenly across the roll surface, reducing localized work hardening.

Preventive maintenance and reconditioning

Regular roll grinding and reconditioning can remove the work-hardened layer, restoring the original surface properties. Implementing a proactive maintenance schedule based on rolling tonnage, operational hours, or condition monitoring data can prevent excessive work hardening accumulation. Advanced reconditioning techniques, such as thermal stress relief or induction hardening, can further enhance roll performance and longevity.

Lubrication and cooling optimization

Effective lubrication and cooling systems play a crucial role in mitigating work hardening. Optimizing coolant composition, flow rates, and application methods can reduce friction and thermal stresses on the roll surface. Advanced lubricant formulations can create protective films that minimize direct metal-to-metal contact, reducing the rate of work hardening.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding and overseeing the impact of work solidifying on Backup Roll surfaces is fundamental for keeping up proficient and dependable rolling process operations. By executing comprehensive location strategies and relief procedures, producers can essentially amplify roll life, move forward item quality, and diminish operational costs. As innovation proceeds to development, unused materials, observing strategies, and support hones will advance improve our capacity to combat the challenges postured by work solidifying in the items. For more information on optimizing your rolling mill operations and backup roll management, please contact us at oiltools15@welongpost.com. Welong is committed to providing cutting-edge solutions for the metal processing industry, ensuring your rolling operations remain at the forefront of efficiency and reliability.

References

1. Zhang, L., & Liu, X. (2025). Microstructural evolution of backup roll surfaces during long-term rolling campaigns. Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance, 34(2), 215-228.

2. Chen, H., Wang, Y., & Li, S. (2024). Advanced non-destructive testing methods for backup roll integrity assessment. NDT & E International, 128, 102638.

3. Smirnov, A., & Petrakov, A. (2023). Influence of work hardening on fatigue life of backup rolls in hot strip mills. Wear, 502-503, 204456.

4. Johnson, K., & Thompson, R. (2025). Optimization of backup roll cooling strategies to mitigate work hardening effects. International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, 168, 120954.

5. Liu, J., Zhang, Q., & Wang, L. (2024). Surface treatment technologies for enhancing backup roll performance in high-load rolling applications. Surface and Coatings Technology, 430, 128019.

6. Yamamoto, T., & Nakajima, K. (2023). Numerical simulation of stress distribution and work hardening in backup rolls during hot rolling. ISIJ International, 63(4), 750-758.


Zhenwu Ma
CHINA WELONG - 20+ years manufactuer in oilfield tools

CHINA WELONG - 20+ years manufactuer in oilfield tools