Important results from the project
The goals set for FlexRoll have been met by delivering software that can simulate the entire hot rolling process of long products. The software is a further development of an existing simulation program, based on finite element analysis. The software has been given a new graphical user interface, includes temperature calculations and can also be used for non-symmetrical rolling conditions. The simulation time remains short in relation to the complexity of the calculations.
Expected long term effects
The software can be used by manufacturing companies to understand/explain the process and adapt it to new materials and new process paths. This allows companies to be more flexible and change faster with fewer costly trials and thus become more competitive.
Approach and implementation
The project plan was divided into four technical work packages and the development of a graphical user interface. The activities were exactly right to achieve the final software. However, it was not possible to keep the schedule for each work package because they were too integrated. For example, it was not possible to test the thermal solver during rolling until the graphical user interface was developed. User workshops also became fewer due to time constraints towards the end of the project.
The project description has been provided by the project members themselves and the text has not been looked at by our editors.
