Investigação sobre a viabilidade técnica da extensão do limite da velocidade de uma linha contínua de produção de aço para o incremento de sua produtividade

Abstract

Production increase of a continuous processing line is directly related to an increased processing speed for the material. In this context, this work presents a technical analysis involving the various equipment comprising a continuous Annealing and Pickling Line of steels, with a focus on characterization and possible expansion of its speed limit. Based onthe relevant rules, theory of operation and operational characteristics of each section of equipment, the evaluation identified the maximum capacity of such sections concerning their highest running speed achievable for the production line under study. In fact, applying theproposed methodology by analyzing the process characteristics, machines control methods, and data surveyed from equipment and processes, the maximum speed value of each section of equipment was determined. The results indicated that the accumulation lengths ofloop cars, revolutions and power capacity of electric motors, furnace heat capacity and electrolytic pickling capacity are not right on their limits, pointing to the possibility of significant speed gains. Step-down gearboxes, on the other hand, proved to be undersized,indicating the need for re-powering, even if they are to operate on the current speed. Apart from the gearboxes, the next speed limitation was imposed by electric motors; however, they can still deliver a speed increase of 17 m/min. It is worthy mentioning that the adoption of thismethodology will make possible an assessment of other production lines designs, thus, with the possibility to optimize them.