Process Operation & Graphite Electrode

For electric furnace smelting, the consumption of the electrode depends on its quality, also it is relevant with process operation (current density, steel grade, scrap quality and lumpiness, blowing oxygen last time ).

1. Consumption of the electrode extremity: The consumption includes the sublimation of graphite material caused by the high temperature of the arc, and the loss of the electrode extremity stems from the chemical reaction of electrode end, molten steel and slag.
2. Oxidation loss of the outer surface of the electrode: In order to improve the smelting rate of electric furnace, oxygen blowing as regular operation will result in increased oxidation loss of the electrode.
3. Electrode breakage and surface peeling: The electrode breakage and its surface peeling may be due to electrode (especially electrode joints) quality and processing problems, but also may be because of process operation.

In the process of steel smelting, the electrode will be gradually consumed by oxidation into a conical shape, and the taper of the electrode and the redness of the electrode trunk are the visual method to measure the antioxidant ability of graphite electrode.

Proper Operations when using :

1. According to the capacity of electric furnace and the capacity of equipped transformer, choose the proper electrode and diameter.
2. In installing graphite electrodes and storage process, pay attention to prevent to damage and moisture, damp electrodes should be dried before using, and protect the electrode joints when lifting.
3. When connecting the electrode, blow off the dust in the joint hole with compressed air, the force should be stead and even when screwing the joint into the joint hole of the electrode, and the tightening torque should be in accordance with the regulations. When holding the electrode, make sure to avoid the joint area.
4. When loading the furnace charge, in order to reduce the impact on the electrode when the charge collapses, large pieces of furnace charge should be loaded near the bottom of the furnace, and the lime and other non-conductive materials can not be gathered in large quantities directly below the electrode.