Method and apparatus for production of multiple gauge strip

An apparatus for the preparation of multiple gauge metal strip having transverse variable thicknesses which comprises:

• an adjustable shaving apparatus comprising an adjustable shaving tool provided with a cutting edge defining a pattern corresponding to the multiple gauge surface desired in said strip product, said shaving tool supported by a vertically adjustable tool holder located within an adjustable housing, said housing provided with horizontal and vertical adjustments and fastened to a base communicating with a flat supporting surface, said base provided with a tunnel-like channel for the passage therethrough of metal strip;
• and
• a hydrodynamic drawing apparatus located in axial alignment with said shaving apparatus whereby strip exiting said shaving apparatus passes directly through said drawing apparatus, said drawing apparatus comprising a container which houses a quantity of lubricant material and possesses an opening in its side walls for the passage therethrough of metal strip, and a die assembly mounted adjacent said container in communication with one of said openings which defines a multiple gauge cross sectional configuration and which comprises a hydrodynamic section and a reduction section connected thereto, wherein said reduction section is of such configuration that strip reduction is confined to the broad surfaces of said strip and equal percentage reductions of said strip occur uniformly with respect to said variable thicknesses at any point lying within any given transverse plane taken therethrough.