Research into the effect of flatness control actuators on vibration stability in cold rolling using the finite element method

Chatter is a major problem that restricts production efficiency and product quality in the cold rolling process at high speed. Although many research studies have focused on relating rolling parameters to mill stability, information about the roll-stack in the axial direction and the strip in the width direction have not yet been considered due to the limitations of modeling methods. This paper proposes a new finite element model for the Universal Crown Control mill (UCM mill) with an improved Timoshenko beam used to investigate the influence of flatness control actuators on the mill stability. A dynamic rolling force calculation formula coupled with a mixed lubrication model is obtained. Then, the structure–process coupling model is established to simulate the rolling process at both steady and unsteady states. The results show that the work roll bending (WRB) has the greatest impact on the critical speed, followed by the intermediate roll shifting (IRS) and the intermediate roll bending (IRB). During vibration, the distribution of the friction stress varies rapidly, and a negative forward slip appears, which exacerbates vibration. Furthermore, the analysis of the energy dissipation in the rolling interface illuminates the vibration mechanism. Therefore, this study contributes to mechanism improvement and chatter suppression in the cold rolling process.