Finite Element Modeling of Edge Defect Formation in Plate Rolling

There is a transition of metal from the lateral and end faces of a continuously cast slab to the broad surface of the plate during the rolling process. The process of metal transition to the wide sides of the plate is the process of defect formation, because surface cracks and defects from the side and end faces transfer to the front surfaces of the plate. When rolling is over the cracks are located on the edges of the plate while the width corresponds to the width of the transition strips. Longitudinal edge cracking during plate hot rolling can occur as a consequence the following three factors combination: 1) transition of metal from the lateral and end faces to the broad surfaces of the strip; 2) the occurrence of tensile stresses during the metal transition; 3) reduced plasticity of the slab edges due to the lower temperature (≈900-950 °C). Significant shift of cracks from the edges takes place due to the transition of metal from the lateral and end faces to the broad surfaces because of the uneven range across the thickness. There is a significant temperature gradient even at 15-20 °C.