LSM: Looper Shape Meter for Steel Strip

In hot strip rolling, there is a growing demand to measure strip shape during the process. While optical strip shape measurement devices have been developed, they are unable to measure strip shape under tension conditions. To address this need, Primetals Technologies developed the Looper Shape Meter (LSM).

The Looper Shape Meter (LSM) is installed between the finishing mills, replacing the conventional looper, and measures strip shape through direct contact with the strip. It consists of seven segments aligned across the strip's width and uses torque meters to measure tension distribution accurately. This allows it to measure the strip shape even when the strip is under tension.

The Looper Shape Meter (LSM) is not only beneficial for monitoring strip shape and ensuring stable strip threading-out, but it also enhances productivity. Additionally, when combined with an automation system, it facilitates control over the steel strip shape.

Advantages of the Looper Shape Meter (LSM)

• Continuous strip shape measurement: the Looper Shape Meter (LSM) can measure the strip shape from the head end to the tail end under tension conditions, unlike optical devices that measure strip shape without tension.
• Stable strip shape measurement in severe conditions: the Looper Shape Meter (LSM) is designed to withstand the harsh rolling environment of a hot strip mill, including heat, water, and high humidity.
• Strip shape control with automation system: the Looper Shape Meter (LSM) monitors strip shape and ensures stable strip threading-out to improve productivity. It also controls strip shape when combined with an automation system. The measurement data from the Looper Shape Meter (LSM) can be used to control bending cylinders, achieving a better strip profile.