Analysis of in-line systems for rapid annealing

Abstract

Continuous thermal processing of metals is a widespread practice that is often implemented in tandem with other manufacturing operations to improve productivity. These processes are generally characterized by poorly defined non-isothermal cycles, yet past research has dealt primarily with the isothermal spectrum. This research presents the development of comprehensive process theory for continuous annealing of wire by electrical resistance heating. The material used in this work was electrolytic tough pitch (ETP) copper and electrical conductor (EC) grade aluminum.