Prior to rolling, steel slabs are re-heated in a continuous furnace where control of the slab temperature is critical. Computer based mathematical models are often employed to control temperatures in the slab re-heat furnace and these need to be verified on a regular basis using a data logging system which travels through the furnace on the back of the slab continually monitoring the actual stock temperature at various locations. The data collected can also be used to examine other parameters such as temperature at the base of the slab in the 'shadow' of the walking beam. A lot of preparation is required in setting up a trial where sensitive data collection instruments will be subject to temperatures of up to 1300° C for periods of 3 to 4 hours plus, and this paper examines best practice in setting up and running a trial, looking in detail at such areas as positioning and protecting the thermocouples used, securing and insulating the data collection system, minimizing the potential for errors, and removal of the system after the trial. The paper also looks at examples of how data collection systems, which can travel with the product, can be used to collect valuable data in the heat treatment processes involved in forged products such as railway wheels etc.
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