Fuzzy logic modeling and control of steel rod quenching after hot rolling

Reinforced concrete rod produced by European Community countries must comply with standards that establish minimum strength and tensile properties along with other technological and geometrical characteristics; however, possible variability within the assigned limits is not specified. Consequently, a number of manufacturing methods are now used, with the result that over time the mechanical properties of these products vary widely. Increased competition has led to the development of new procedures incorporating both process and quality control. One example is a process based on the heat treatment undergone by the metal bars leaving the final stand of the rolling mill train. In this way, the mechanical and technological properties can be graduated, thereby enhancing strength (particularly yield point) without altering the deformability of the material. This procedure does away with the need to alter the chemical composition of the steel used to manufacture the rods. Process adjustment still relies on the experience of the production manager, however. This paper examines the possibility of applying fuzzy logic computer techniques to the heat treatment process in order to render it more rational and independent of operator unreliability.