
In rolling operations, selecting the right type of roll can directly affect productivity, maintenance, and product quality. While traditional Cast Steel Rolls and Alloy Steel Rolls have been widely used, Graphitic Cast Steel Rolls offer a unique combination of strength, durability, and self-lubricating performance.
What Are Graphitic Cast Steel Rolls?
Graphitic Cast Steel Rolls are manufactured by introducing controlled amounts of graphite into cast steel. This hybrid structure maintains the strength and toughness of steel while leveraging the self-lubricating and heat-resistance properties of graphite. The result is a roll that not only withstands heavy workloads but also reduces friction and thermal cracking during rolling processes.
Properties
| Material Code | C | Si | Mn | Cr | Ni | Mo | P | S | Surface Hardness /HSD (roll barrel) | Surface Hardness /HSD (roll neck) | Recommended Applications |
| GS140 | 1.30~1.50 | 1.30~1.50 | 0.50~0.70 | 0.40~0.60 | — | 0.20~0.50 | ≤0.035 | ≤0.030 | 36~46 | ≤50 | Breakdown rolls for Universal Section and Rail Beam Mills,Edger Rolls,Rolls for Two-High Section Mills , Billet Mill rolls, Bar and Wire Rod Mill rolls, Hot Strip/Plate Mill roughing rolls, Hot Rolling Edger rolls |
| GS150 | 1.40~1.60 | 1.00~1.70 | 0.60~1.00 | 0.60~1.00 | 0.20~1.00 | 0.20~0.50 | ≤0.035 | ≤0.030 | 40~50 | ≤50 | |
| GS160 | 1.50~1.70 | 0.80~1.50 | 0.60~1.00 | 0.50~1.00 | 1.00~1.50 | 0.20~0.80 | ≤0.035 | ≤0.030 | 45~55 | ≤50 | |
| GS190 | 1.80~2.00 | 0.80~1.50 | 0.60~1.00 | 0.50~2.00 | 0.60~2.00 | 0.20~0.80 | ≤0.035 | ≤0.030 | 50~60 | ≤50 | |
| GS210 | 2.00~2.20 | 0.80~1.20 | 1.00~2.00 | 2.00~2.50 | 2.00~2.50 | 0.60~0.80 | ≤0.035 | ≤0.030 | 55~65 | ≤50 |
Comparison with Cast Steel Rolls and Alloy Steel Rolls
| Roll Type | Material Composition | Main Properties | Advantages | Disadvantages | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cast Steel Roll | Carbon steel or low-alloy steel casting | High strength, good toughness | Lower manufacturing cost, wide applicability | Poor wear resistance and self-lubrication | Roughing mills, section mills, small to medium steel rolling |
| Alloy Cast Steel Roll | Alloy steel with Cr, Ni, Mo, etc. | High strength, good wear resistance | Strong wear resistance, long service life | High cost | Heavy-duty mills, finishing mills, high-temperature rolling |
| Graphitic Cast Steel Roll | Steel matrix + dispersed graphite | Relatively high strength, good thermal crack resistance, self-lubricating | Low friction, heat crack resistant, reduces rolling defects | Slightly lower hardness than high-alloy rolls | Section mills, small to medium billet mills, roughing mill stands |
Advantages
- Enhanced Durability: High mechanical strength from the steel matrix ensures reliability under heavy loads.
- Self-Lubrication: Graphite inclusions reduce surface friction, minimizing wear and maintenance.
- Thermal Crack Resistance: Efficient heat dissipation prevents surface cracks.
- Versatility: Applicable to hot and cold rolling mills, aluminum lines, and other heavy industries.
SATRAD GROUP ROLL SOLUTIONS
Discover the differences between rolling mill rolls. Learn about their material composition, performance, advantages,and typical applications. Contact SATRAD GROUP for professional roll solutions.

