Modeling and Optimization of Rolling Process: A Multi-Objective Approach

Abstract

In a high-speed cold strip rolling process, it is necessary to optimize the process parameters for improved quality in the product. In this study, two separate multi-objective optimization problems for a cold rolling process are formulated. The objectives in one of the cases are minimum isothermal film thickness and film temperature rise in the inlet zone and in another case it is minimum thermal film thickness and film temperature rise in the inlet zone. Particle swarm optimization algorithm has been used for solving the optimization problem. The key input parameters for the cold rolling process are identified and prioritized through the convergence study and the coefficient of variation analysis. A response analysis is performed on the critical input variables. This study assists the process engineer to understand the lubrication in cold strip rolling at high speed and select an appropriate lubricant for a given combination of strip and rolls.