Patent ID: 6408667
Filing Date: 2002-06-25
Classification: B21B,Y10T

Abstract:
A roll change apparatus for changing a work roll assembly that includes a work roll mounted in work roll chocks moveably contained within pockets in backup roll chocks that support a backup roll within a four-high rolling mill stand, comprising:a) actuators fastened to opposed inboard facing surfaces of the backup roll chocks that support the backup roll in the four-high rolling mill stand; b) parallel spaced apart lift-rails attached to said actuators such that one end of each said lift-rail extends to a position below one of the work roll chocks and such that an opposite end of each said lift-rail extends to a position below the other work roll chock, each said extended lift-rail portion engaging a surface of the work roll chocks and lifting said work roll assembly to a roll changing position located above the backup roll when said actuators are operated to move said lift-rails in an upward direction, and each said extended lift-rail portion disengaging from said surface of the work roll chocks when the work roll contacts the lower backup roll in response to said actuators operated in a downward direction.