<p>The finite element software was used to simulate the hot rolling finishing process, and the distribution of force, heat and velocity in the deformation zone was analyzed. Based on the high temperature friction and wear tester, the friction process of high speed steel (HSS) roll and strip during hot rolling was simulated. The results show that the process can be divided into three stages based on the observed changes in the friction coefficient throughout the rolling process. In the initial state, owing to the instability of the rolling process, the friction coefficient rapidly attains its maximum value within a brief interval and subsequently declines rapidly. Subsequently, the friction coefficient undergoes a gradual increase due to the formation of finer oxide layer particles during the growth period. Ultimately, the friction coefficient will be maintained at a stable value between 0.34 and 0.37. At this time, the HSS roll matrix mainly contains MC, M₂C and M₆C carbides. Additionally, the surface oxide layer particles become larger and more densely distributed, which can inhibit the wear of HSS rolls to a certain extent.</p>