Method and apparatus for joining hot strips

Abstract

A trailing end of a preceding bar is arranged slantingly by an angle .theta. relative to a succeeding bar such that the lower edge of the leading end face of the succeeding bar is vertically shifted from the lower edge of the trailing end face of the preceding bar with the leading end face of the succeeding bar abutting against the trailing end face of the preceding bar. After that, the succeeding bar is vertically depressed by applying a predetermined force. Since the trailing end face is inclined by .theta. relative to the leading end face, the depression causes a relative slide between surfaces of both the end faces and, at the same time, a pressure P is also produced by the wedge effect, the pressure P causing a compression force and a plastic deformation between both the end faces. Oxide scales on the contact surfaces of both the end faces are peeled off due to the plastic deformation and the relative slide, so that the metal surfaces of the material are exposed to join the bars simultaneously in combination with the compression force and the plastic deformation caused by the pressure P. Thus, the bars are joined to each other in a short time for realization of continuous hot rolling.