Graphite Electrodes Application

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.

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.

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

Specifications:

NEMA CG 1-2001 Manufactured Graphite / Carbon Electrodes

This standard defines size, dimensions, and configurations of cylindrical graphite and carbon electrodes for use in electric arc furnaces. Additionally, this standard specifies acceptable joining features (threads, etc.).

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

Graphite Electrodes
Courtesy ASP, Inc.