The use of graphite in the steelmaking process of electric arc furnaces, which accounts for around 18% global crude steel output, is crucial. The electrode conducts electricity in order to generate the high temperatures required to smelt minerals and ore into refined ferroalloys such as ferrosilicon and ferromanganese. In an electric arc oven, this is achieved through resistive heating and an arc formed between the electrodes and scrap steel.
EAF generates 80% fewer carbon dioxide emissions per tonne steel when compared to traditional oxygen steelmaking. The main reason for this is that the smelting process takes place in a electric arc instead of a traditional open-hearth. EAFs require a high amount of energy and graphite for the high voltage needed in the arcing.
In order to guarantee the safety and reliability of the EAF steelmaking process, the graphite electrodes used must be of good quality. It is also important that the electrodes are properly matched to each other and used in the smelting. It is easier to break an electrode if, for example, the end structure of the electrode has dark lines, herringbone cracks, or both, and if joint tolerance and electrode holes are not properly matched. Or if linear expansion coefficients between graphite and scrap steel are not matched. This will cause the electrode to break during melting.
How well the electrodes are matched to other equipment such as the power supply will also determine the consumption. The electrodes must be matched properly to avoid excessive arc resistance, a short-circuit and increased energy consumption. The arc-starting voltage and arc-stabilizing current must also be controlled properly to prevent electrodes from becoming fried.
In terms of on-site storage graphite electrodes must be stored well away from any heat source. They should also be hooked using a special hook and not directly hooked. Direct hooking of the electrodes will increase the risk of breakage during handling and transportation. It is also necessary to ensure that the electrodes are stored in a clean environment and not exposed to moisture, solvents, acids, or other chemicals.
For the successful operation of an electric arc furnace, the oxidation and thermal shock resistances of graphite are crucial. In addition, the quality balance and stability of graphite electrodes are highly regarded by direct users. Electrodes must therefore be of the highest quality to increase productivity in smelting.
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