Graphite electrodes

 

Graphite electrodes are mainly used in steelmaking in electric arc furnaces and in steel refining processes after out-of-furnace processing in ladle furnace units. Graphite electrodes are also used in other smelting processes, for example, matte smelting in ore-thermal furnaces.

The electric arc furnace in steel production provides greater operational flexibility compared to an oxygen converter, as it can be stopped and restarted again relatively quickly, which makes it possible to promptly respond to consumer requests and market dynamics. That is why arc furnaces are widely used both by small steel mills and in foundry. Accordingly, the demand for consumables such as graphite electrodes is steadily increasing.

Electric arc furnaces operate using either alternating current or direct current. The vast majority of electric arc furnaces use alternating current. Each of these furnaces typically uses nine electrodes (in three columns of three electrodes each) at a time. The remaining electric arc furnaces that use direct current typically use one column of three electrodes. During the melting process, the electrodes are gradually consumed, which requires the addition of a new electrode. Graphite electrodes are interconnected by means of a nipple connection, for which a threaded nipple socket is made at both ends of each electrode. The size of the electrodes varies depending on the size of the furnace, the parameters of the current transformer and the planned capacity of the furnace. The electrodes can be either small — 75 millimeters in diameter, or rather large — up to 750 mm in diameter and up to 2800 mm in length. Accordingly, one graphitized electrode can weigh depending on the size from five kilograms to two tons.

Features in the production and sale of graphite electrodes

Electrodes are currently the only products available that have a high level of electrical conductivity and the ability to maintain a high level of heat in an electric arc furnace during steel production. Currently, there is an active development of technologies for the production of graphite electrodes and a constant increase in their quality to meet modern requirements, since any changes in metallurgical, electrical and mechanical operating conditions can have a significant impact on the behavior of the electrodes. New melting technologies in modern large-volume and high-power furnaces lead to faster heating of the electrodes than in small furnaces and require a significant increase in the resistance of electrodes to thermal and mechanical influences. Increasing the efficiency of electric arc furnaces leads to a decrease in the consumption of graphitized electrodes per ton of steel produced in electric arc furnaces (specific consumption).
Supplied by Ventopro Pte. Ltd. graphite electrodes correspond to the operating conditions of modern arc furnaces and have high mechanical strength, excellent thermal conductivity, low electrical resistance, which is crucial for economical consumption.