There are several cooling methods used in the steel industry for ship plates, including:
1. Water cooling: This method involves spraying water on the surface of the plate to cool it down quickly. The water pressure, flow rate, and temperature are carefully controlled to achieve the desired cooling rate. Water cooling is commonly used for thick plates or in instances where the cooling rate needs to be fast.
2. Air cooling: In this method, the plate is left to cool naturally in the air without any external cooling. Air cooling is generally used for thinner plates or in instances where a slower cooling rate is desired.
3. Forced air cooling: This method is similar to air cooling, but with the addition of forced air circulation to increase the cooling rate. Forced air cooling is often used for medium thickness plates.
4. Vacuum cooling: This method involves placing the plate in a vacuum chamber and using a vacuum pump to reduce the pressure inside. The reduced pressure lowers the boiling point of water, which is then sprayed onto the plate to cool it down. Vacuum cooling is used for sensitive materials or where there is a need for precise control of the cooling rate.
Each cooling method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of method depends on factors such as plate thickness, material type, cooling rate requirements, and production cost. It is important to carefully consider these factors to ensure optimal cooling and the highest quality product.