Here are the main components:
1. Rolling Stands
• Function: These are the core components where the aluminum strip undergoes compression and thickness reduction. The stands are typically arranged in tandem and can include both single-layer and multi-layer rolling systems.
• Types: 4-high mills (four rolls), 6-high mills, and Cluster mills are common.
2. Drive System
• Function: Provides the power to rotate the rolls and move the aluminum strip through the mill. It usually consists of electric motors, gearboxes, and couplings.
• Control: It often integrates with the mill's PLC system to adjust speed and torque.
3. Rolls
• Function: The rolls are responsible for deforming the aluminum as it passes through them. For composite rolling mills, multiple rolls of different sizes are used for roughing and finishing passes.
• Types: Work rolls, Backup rolls, and Intermediate rolls are used depending on the design.
4. Hydraulic System
• Function: Controls the force applied between the rolls and adjusts the gap according to the thickness of the aluminum strip.
• Components: Includes hydraulic cylinders and valves for precise control.
5. Automatic Gauge Control (AGC) System
• Function: Monitors and adjusts the gap between rolls in real-time to ensure consistent strip thickness.
• Components: Includes thickness gauges, sensors, and a feedback loop to automatically regulate the roll gap.
6. Cooling and Lubrication System
• Function: Provides essential cooling and lubrication to reduce friction between the rolls and the aluminum strip, ensuring smooth operation and extending the lifespan of the equipment.
• Components: Includes cooling towers, oil pumps, and spray nozzles.
7. Tension Control System
• Function: Maintains proper tension throughout the rolling process, preventing the strip from breaking or wrinkling.
• Components: Includes tension sensors, winches, and motorized tensioners.
8. Coiler and Uncoiler
• Function: These are used to unwind the aluminum coil before rolling and then wind it back into coils after the rolling process is completed.
• Components: Includes coil reels, uncoiling stands, and winding machines.
9. Exit or Delivery System
• Function: Delivers the finished aluminum strip to the downstream processing stage.
• Components: Includes exit rolls, guiding rollers, and cooling beds.
10. Automation and Control System
• Function: Coordinates and optimizes the operation of the entire rolling mill. It ensures smooth adjustments to speed, pressure, and tension, and integrates all components into a cohesive system.
• Components: Includes PLC systems, HMI (Human-Machine Interface), and sensors.