GRAPHITE
ELECTRODES.

Graphite electrodes are used mainly in the production/recycling of steel, where steel scrap is melted in a large furnace by the heat from an electric arc, hence ‘electric arc furnaces’. Approximately 1/3 of global steel is produced in this way, making it the largest recycling process in the world. In contrast to steel production using iron ore, electric arc furnaces avoid about 80% of direct CO2 emissions per ton of steel.

In the steel mill, the crucible is loaded with steel scrap. One strand (direct current furnace) or three strands (alternating current furnace) consisting of several graphite electrodes screwed on top of one another are introduced and the arc ignited. The enormous heat generated (around 3500 °C) quickly melts the scrap in the furnace, typically within 45 - 90 minutes. The molten steel is then poured off for further processing in a procedure known as tapping.

So why must the electrodes be made of graphite? If they were made of metal, as in almost all electrical devices, they would melt just like the scrap. Hence the need for a material that can conduct the electric current into the scrap without itself melting, even at the extreme temperatures in the arc. Our graphite meets precisely these conditions.

But despite its exceptional properties and durability, the graphite electrode consumes itself in the melting process, mainly through oxidation. Therefore, the shortening strand must be regularly supplemented by screwing on a new electrode. Our customers appreciate the low consumption rates, high quality, and reliability of our products.