Factors to consider when selecting and applying graphite electrodes

Graphite electrodes are used primarily in electric arc furnace steel manufacturing. Graphite electrodes can provide high levels of electrical conductivity and capability of sustaining the extremely high levels of generated heat. Graphite electrodes are also used in the refinement of steel and similar smelting processes.

As always, Engineers from Rongsheng Kiln Refractory recommends consulting with graphite electrode suppliers, as well, as furnace engineers for proper selection and sizing.

Graphite electrodes are selected based on some of the following application considerations:

Furnace design

Scrap requirements

Charging practice

Burner/Oxygen usage

Water spray rings

Fume control system

Meltdown/Refine/Tap-to-Tap Time

Power level

Slag practice

Carbon - graphite electrodes are also used in gouging operations such as in the forming of a bevel or groove, removing defects in castings or weldments by an arc or gas process. Arc gouging removes material by melting it with the heat of an arc struck between a carbon - graphite electrode and the base metal. Compressed air or nitrogen simultaneously blows the molten metal away.

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