Abstract: A load signal representing the load between a mold and an oscillating mechanism is separated into its static offset and dynamic components. The static offset signal is compared with a free-running static offset to obtain a substantially DC signal representing the DC component of mold friction. A DC voltage is generated corresponding to the RMS value of the dynamic load signal component, and a reference voltage corresponding to the RMS value of the dynamic signal component of a free-running load signal is subtracted in order to obtain a substantially DC signal representing the dynamic component of mold friction.

Abstract: A method and mechanism for determining forces on a casting as it solidifies in a continuous-casting machine. A plurality of roll-pairs of an otherwise conventional curved roll-rack are equipped with means (e.g. load cells) which show the compressive load exerted by the different roll-pairs on the casting. The roll-pair beyond which no further upward trend in compressive load occurs marks the plane at which the casting first solidifies throughout its cross section, since beyond this plane the casting no longer has a liquid core tending to bulge the skin and separate the rolls. Whenever the load on a roll-pair departs substantially from the norm, the indication is that the rolls of this pair are improperly gapped (that is, the spacing between roll faces is either too great or too little).

Abstract: A method and mechanism for controlling forces exerted between opposed roll-pairs of a continuous-casting machine and a casting traveling therebetween. Each roll pair is equipped with a load cell for measuring the force. If the force at any roll-pair deviates from the norm, it is an indication that the dimension of the gap between rolls of that pair requires correction. Correction is effected through a screw threaded adjusting means.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for locating improperly positioned or bent rolls among a set of rolls which define a confined path of travel for a workpiece, particularly useful for checking a straight or curved roll-rack of a continuous-casting machine. The apparatus may be propelled through the path defined by the rolls by any suitable mechanism. For example, as applied to a roll-rack, the apparatus may be attached to the upper end of a starter bar and propelled with the bar through the rack, or the apparatus may be suspended from a hoist and pulled through the rack. The apparatus includes a housing and means within the housing for measuring the gap between work-engaging faces of the rolls and/or, when used with a curved roll-rack, means for measuring the angular relation of adjacent bottom rolls. The latter measurement is used in determining whether the work-engaging faces lie on arcs of the intended radii.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for locating improperly positioned or bent rolls among a set of rolls which define a confined path of travel for a workpiece, particularly useful for checking a straight or curved roll-rack of a continuous-casting machine. The apparatus may be propelled through the path defined by the rolls by any suitable mechanism. For example, as applied to a roll-rack, the apparatus may be attached to the upper end of a starter bar and propelled with the bar through the rack, or the apparatus may be suspended from a hoist and pulled through the rack. The apparatus includes a housing and means within the housing for measuring the gap between work-engaging faces of the rolls and-or, when used with a curved roll-rack, means for measuring the angular relation of adjacent bottom rolls. The latter measurement is used in determining whether the work-engaging faces lie on arcs of the intended radii.