The top 3 steel production costs are: scrap, energy, and electrodes.
If a good cost per ton is not chosen
How much can it cost the company? How much can you increase your production costs?
The mistake of not choosing well can make you competitive in the market or not
Graphite electrodes play a significant role in the steel-making industry. It is the primary heating element present in the electric arc furnace. The intense heat obtained through graphite electrodes helps melt junk cars and appliances to produce new steel.
To make this process efficient, a company should have high-quality graphite electrodes installed in their electric arc furnaces. Finding the best graphite electrode can be a challenge. It is especially true when you’re a novice in the industry.
From resistivity to apparent density, there is a diversity of technical factors that needs consideration; and, let’s not forget the hunt to find a reliable supplier.
FRC Global is a leading supplier of graphite electrodes, refractories, and combustion systems. Having dealt in this industry for a long time, we understand how confusing this whole process can be for you.
To help you, our team of experts dived into the details and compiled this comprehensive guide.
In this guide, you'll learn about the important technical aspects that come into play. You will also discover graphite electrode uses and types. Read more!
Graphite Electrode & Its Uses
An electrode is a simple conductor that provides a path for electrical energy to travel between objects. There are several electrode types, each made from a different metal.
However, the most commonly used one is the graphite electrode. It is the integral heating component in the steel-making industry. It also gets used for steel refinement in ladle furnaces and several other smelting processes. Graphite electrodes also get used to refine steel in ladle furnaces and other smelting processes.
As of 2021, the graphite electrode market has a worth of USD 4,431.49+ million, and analysts have expected it to rise further.
If it continues to grow in price, it will dominate
But, why is graphite electrode preferred over others? And, why should you invest in it?
Here are a few reasons why you should buy a graphite electrode:
Graphite electrodes possess high thermal conductivity. It can withstand extreme temperatures in furnaces.
It exhibits low resistance to electricity. Hence, these electrodes can conduct the massive electrical currents required to melt metals, like iron.
High-quality graphite electrodes last longer.
Types of Graphite Electrodes
When selecting the best graphite electrode, you will come across several types. You must evaluate each class to pick one that satisfies your needs the best.
Generally, graphite electrode companies divide them based on two factors; coke quality and furnace type.
Factors to consider in the Best Graphite Electrode
Once you’ve selected the type of graphite electrodes, it’s time to consider some other essential features. These features help evaluate the physical and chemical indexes of the particular graphite electrode.
Electrical Resistivity
The electrical resistivity refers to the difficulty faced by the electric current when passing through the electrode. Lower values indicate the smooth and higher flow of current without causing overheating.
Flexural Strength
Flexural strength is the maximum amount of stress a graphite electrode can handle. The higher the value, the powerful the electrode is, and the lesser flexural breaks you will experience.
Apparent Density
The apparent density is the weight per unit volume of the graphite electrode. Usually, it is better to opt for higher apparent density as it indicates enhanced mechanical properties.
Resistance to Tension
Graphite electrodes might experience nipple breaks if the resistance to tension is high. Lower tension resistivity can reduce the number of nipple breaks.
Young's Modulus
Young's Modulus is the measurement of resistance to length change before a compression or tension force. It also gets expressed as the relation between deformation and strength. It would help if you opted for lower values to ensure that the resistance to thermal shock is good.
At FRC Global, we prioritize customer satisfaction as much as quality product supply. We manufacture the highest quality graphite electrodes globally. We have 25+ warehouse facilities located in various cities in the United States, Mexico, Canada, and South America.
You can reach us at any of these facilities and discuss graphite electrode purchases with our experts. We'll be glad to help you through all the stages!
Alternatively, you can also give us a call or contact us through our website. Hopefully, this guide to purchasing the best graphite electrode must have helped you in your journey. In case you’ve any queries or recommendations, do let us know in the comments below!
