Rolls are the primary working components and tools in a rolling mill that induce continuous plastic deformation in the metal. A roll typically consists of three sections: the roll body, the roll neck, and the roll end (or journal). The roll body is the central section that directly engages in the rolling process; it features either a smooth cylindrical surface or a surface with grooves. The roll necks are seated in bearings and transmit rolling forces to the mill housing via bearing chocks and the screw-down mechanism. The drive-end roll end connects to the gear stand via a coupling shaft, transmitting torque from the motor to the roll. Rolls can be arranged within the mill housing in two-high, three-high, four-high, or multi-roll configurations.
The varieties and manufacturing processes of rolls have continuously evolved alongside advancements in metallurgical technology and the development of steel rolling equipment.
