Abstract
This paper designs a looper-tension controller for strip top-tail parts in hot strip finishing mills. A three-degree linear model of the looper-tension system is derived by a Taylor's linearization method, where the actuator's dynamics are ignored because of their fast responses. A feedforward shaping controller for the strip top part and a feedforward model reference controller for the strip tail part are respectively designed, they are combined with an ILQ(Inverse Linear Quadratic optimal control) feedback controller for the strip middle part. It is shown from by a computer simulation that the proposed controller is very effective to the strip top-tail parts including the middle part.