Feed opening adjustment of segments for continuous casting systems

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for adjusting the feed opening of segments for continuous casting systems, especially position-controlled segments for slab and thin-slab continuous casting systems which comprise a strand guide ( 1 ) with segments ( 2 ) for a predetermined guidance of a cast strand using measuring and control signals. In order to provide an independent intelligent segment, the measuring and control signals are processed in at least one system unit ( 14 ′) directly on the respective segment ( 2 ) and the set values are fed to the segment ( 2 ′) by a superordinate control system ( 10 ) via a field bus ( 11 ), for example a profibus and a power supply ( 12 ′). Actual values are returned to the control system ( 10 ′) via the field bus ( 11 ) as the result of control or as a process status. The system units ( 14 ) present on the segment ( 21 ) are supplied with segment-specific data such as rigidity coefficients, roller diameter, control parameters, feed opening basic settings and adjustment quota. The invention also relates to a device for carrying out the method.

1 . Device for automatically controlling the feed opening of segments for continuous casting plants, which are designed at least with a position sensor ( 7 ) and a pressure sensor ( 8 ), especially for automatically controlling the feed opening of segments for slab and thin-slab continuous casting plants, which comprise a strand guide ( 1 ) with segments ( 2 ) for predetermined guidance of a cast strand with the use of measuring signals and automatic control signals, wherein each segment ( 2 ) has at least one decentralized system unit ( 14 ), which is connected via a field bus or profi bus ( 11 ) with an overriding control system ( 10 ) and a power supply ( 12 ).  
   
   
       2 . Device in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the lines for bus links ( 11 ) and for the power supply ( 12 ) are equipped with plug connections for the purpose of making segment changes.  
   
   
       3 . Device in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the system units ( 14 ) are automatic control and regulation units.  
   
   
       4 . Device in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the system units ( 14 ) are so-called intelligent terminals.  
   
   
       5 . Use of the device for automatically controlling the feed opening of segments for continuous casting plants, especially segments for slab and thin-slab continuous casting plants, in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the measuring and automatic control signals are processed in at least one system unit ( 14 ) directly on the given segment ( 2 ), the predetermined set point values are fed to the segment ( 2 ) by an overriding control system ( 10 ) via a field bus ( 11 ), e.g., a profi bus, and a power supply ( 12 ), and actual values are returned to the control system ( 10 ), likewise via the field bus ( 11 ), as control results or as the process status.  
   
   
       6 . Use of the device in accordance with  claim 5 , wherein segment-specific data, such as modulus of elasticity in shear, roller diameter, automatic controller parameters, basic settings of the feed opening, and adjustment ratios, are supplied to the system units ( 14 ) located on the segment ( 2 ).  
   
   
       7 . Use of the device in accordance with  claim 5 , wherein, besides the necessary function(s) for accomplishing the segment adjustment, the decentralized system unit ( 14 ) is assigned additional decentralized segment-specific functions, such as acquisition and processing of other measurement data, e.g., bearing force monitoring, temperature measurements and controls, calibration data, or the like.