Prospects for Variable Gauge Rolling: Technology, Theory and Application

Variable gauge rolling (VGR) is a new technology to produce flat products with different thicknesses (FDT), which could be used to replace conventional flat products in order to save metals and reduce structure mass. The method of VGR was introduced for investigating new problems in rolling theory of VGR, and the new formulas for calculating parameters of VGR were proposed. Besides, some results of numerical simulation by finite element method were described. As an example, the products applications of FDT in bridge construction, ship building and auto manufacturing were presented. Finally, the prospects for VGR and FDT were discussed.