Abstract: Work roll wear contours and wear profiles were analyzed on the basis of large amount of measured work roll contour patterns and processing parameters. The method of building wear calculation functions for center portion abrasion and marginal abrasion respectively was used to develop a work roll wear prediction mathematical model for the 1700mm hot strip mill of Wuhan Iron and Steel (Group) Co. by using genetic algorithm. The calculated results of the prediction model are in good agreement with the measured ones and can be applied to guide production in practice.