Finite Element Analysis of Flange Spread Behavior in H‐beam Universal Rolling

Abstract

AbstractFlange spread is one of the most important factors in the production of H‐beams with the universal rolling mill. Although some prediction models for flange spread have been proposed, the constants in the model equations should be determined for each product size, which requires much experimental work. In this research, finite element analysis was carried out in various rolling conditions and a technique for deciding the model constants by the analysis was investigated. First, rolling experiments using pure lead were carried out to confirm the correctness of the flange spread model. Finite element analyses were then executed for rolling conditions corresponding to the experiments. The flange spread in the numerical analyses showed very good agreement with the experimental results, confirming the accuracy of the numerical simulation. At the same time, the possibility of determining the model constants by numerical analysis was demonstrated. Other related properties of universal rolling were also investigated with the data from the finite element analysis. Changes in the web and flange thicknesses after exiting the roll gap were quantitatively simulated. The cross‐flow behavior between the web and flange was investigated, and the effect of rolling conditions on the cross‐flow ratio was obtained. This research demonstrates that finite element simulation is a powerful tool for investigating and modeling deformation in H‐beam universal rolling.