Structural and extremal properties of the hot rolling batches precedence graph

In this paper we study structural properties and properties of maximal paths of the hot rolling batches precedence graph. The hot rolling batches precedence graph arises in the problem of planning and scheduling of a hot strip mill load. Slab batches are selected and sequenced in turns. Basic technological restrictions on batch sequencing in turns are represented by the rolling batches precedence graph. Some fundamental structural properties of this graphs are stated such as the local block structure and the maximal paths structure. Motivation and overview of the result application potential are also provided.