(6 high rolling mill)
Modern metal processing relies heavily on advanced rolling mill configurations, with the 6 high rolling mill
(6-Hi) standing as a cornerstone technology. This configuration features three sets of work rolls and backup rolls arranged in a precise vertical stack. The intermediate rolls provide exceptional control over material deformation that isn't achievable in traditional 4-Hi designs. For ultra-thin strip production below 0.1mm, some manufacturers transition to specialized 20 high rolling mill (20-Hi) configurations, though this increases mechanical complexity substantially.
The structural superiority of 6 high cold rolling mill installations enables unprecedented flatness control tolerances of ±1 IU across strip widths up to 2,080mm. Compared to 4-Hi alternatives, six high rolling mill configurations demonstrate 40-60% higher dimensional consistency due to intermediate roll shifting capabilities. Crown control systems regulate strip thickness profiles to within 0.5% of target specifications, while dynamic shape regulation systems compensate for thermal expansion during sustained operation. Modern installations consistently achieve rolling speeds exceeding 2,500mpm when processing aluminum alloys, representing a 22% throughput increase over previous-generation equipment.
Manufacturer | Max Speed (mpm) | Thickness Range (mm) | Power Efficiency | Automation Level |
---|---|---|---|---|
SMS Group | 2,800 | 0.08-3.5 | High | Industry 4.0 |
Primetals | 2,400 | 0.1-4.0 | Very High | AI Predictive |
Danieli | 2,600 | 0.15-3.0 | Medium | SCADA Integration |
Andritz | 2,200 | 0.3-4.5 | High | PLC Controlled |
Leading manufacturers provide modular designs adaptable to specific production environments. Power ratings range from 10-40MW depending on material hardness requirements, with coil handling capacities scalable to 50 metric tonnes. Advanced tandem configurations integrate 3-5 six high rolling mill stands consecutively for automotive-grade steel production. Custom control packages include thickness monitoring with 0.25μm laser systems and thermal compensation modules. For specialized alloys, optional features include inert atmosphere chambers that minimize oxide formation during processing of reactive metals.
Automotive sector installations achieve ≤0.005mm thickness variation across 1,750mm wide AHSS coils, enabling 17% vehicle weight reduction. In electronics manufacturing, a South Korean facility increased production yield by 29% when upgrading to specialized 6 high cold rolling mill technology for copper foil production. Aerospace suppliers routinely utilize the technology for titanium alloy processing, where intermediate roll shifting compensates for variable material springback. Beverage can producers have documented 23% material savings after implementing shape correction systems on their aluminum rolling lines.
Modern 6-Hi installations deliver substantial operational improvements. Energy consumption metrics show a 35% reduction per tonne versus 4-Hi configurations, partially achieved through regenerative braking systems capturing up to 25% of deceleration energy. Production line utilization averages 92% uptime with predictive maintenance programs reducing unplanned downtime to under 3%. Quick-change cartridge systems allow full work roll replacement in under 15 minutes - a 60% time reduction compared to traditional methods. Advanced mills typically achieve ROI within 26 months through waste reduction and increased throughput.
Industry trajectories point toward increasingly intelligent 6 high rolling mill platforms. Current R&D focuses on machine-learning algorithms that anticipate strip shape variations by analyzing upstream furnace conditions, with pilot programs demonstrating 18% setup time reductions. European facilities now integrate hydrogen-ready furnace systems with cold mills for carbon-neutral production paths. Future 20 high rolling mill developments target nano-scale thickness tolerances for battery foil applications, while six high rolling mill technology remains dominant for conventional applications requiring optimal precision-to-cost ratios.
(6 high rolling mill)
A: A 6 high rolling mill adds intermediate rolls to the 4 high design, improving strip thickness control and reducing roll deflection. This setup enhances precision for thin or hard materials like stainless steel. It also extends roll life by distributing wear more evenly.
A: A 6 high cold rolling mill is specifically optimized for cold rolling processes, where materials are rolled at room temperature. It incorporates advanced cooling and lubrication systems to prevent material hardening. This design ensures superior surface finish and dimensional accuracy for products like automotive sheets.
A: A 20 high rolling mill uses a cluster of backup rolls to support smaller work rolls, enabling ultra-thin foil production. In contrast, a six high rolling mill uses fewer rolls but offers better rigidity for medium-thickness materials. The 20 high design prioritizes precision for niche applications like aerospace alloys.
A: Intermediate rolls in a six high rolling mill allow adjustable crown and profile control by shifting their positions. This flexibility improves material flatness and reduces edge drop. It also minimizes the risk of defects in high-strength or temperature-sensitive metals.
A: 6 high cold rolling mills are widely used in automotive manufacturing for producing body panels and fuel systems. They are also essential in electronics for creating precision components and in packaging for thin aluminum foils. Their accuracy makes them ideal for high-value, thin-gauge products.