Modelling of metallurgical processes with special reference to the continuous strand partial annealing process.

In laboratory experiments on the rapid partial annealing of cold-worked mild steel sheet, the experimental results have been used to derive an empirical model, inter-relating the mechanical properties of the sheet with different variables selected in order of their effects on the particular mechanical property. The validity of these process model relationships was tested by predicting the mechanical properties coreesponding to each of the experimental conditions included in the model and comparing them with the actual experimental values. This comparison revealed that only the 0.2% P.S. and the T.S. equations satisfactorily predict, properties to an acceptable degree of accuracy. The scope and limitation of this type of empirical model are discussed in terms of application and the difficulties associated with precisely defining the pertinent, process or material variables. Finally, it is demonstrated how the equations can be used to optimize the different process variables to achieve a given property level or combination of properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]