Use of the latest measuring systems and the optimisation of process control are essential to enable the better exploitation of potentials offered by hot rolling plant and equipment. Sophisticated closed-loop control concepts employ model-based (predictive) and multivariable controls to take account of the complex relations between plant and equipment functions, delays, and occurring faults and malfunctions. Forming the heart of model predictive controllers (MPC) is the process model, which is utilised to predict the flatness and determine the optimum actuating variables, while allowing for actuating variable and controlled variable restrictions. It is thereby possible to roll additional metres of strip within the ever tighter flatness tolerances.
 
There are tools available for the fast realisation and testing of controller types which simplify the path from design through to operational testing and minimise the development times. They at the same time allow the achievable improvements to be estimated beforehand by simulation and consequently make the benefits quantifiable.