The Factors Affecting Graphite Electrode Consumption Rate

In the process of steel smelting, high consumption rates are always tried to be avoided in the production lines. We displayed several crucial aspects that lead to elevated electrode consumption as following for your reference.

 

The tips of graphite electrodes are the fragile part of it. There are four main reasons that can cause the consumption of it, which include: evaporation, thermal spalling, dissolution and chemical reactions. In the process of furnace heating, the internal temperature of the arc column will reach a very hot degree. Due to temperature differences among different parts of graphite electrodes, thermal stresses can arise accordingly and lead to thermal spalling. So, if the bottom-blowing is not under control very well during different refining stages or if poor regulation of electrode lifting can result in contact between the molten steel and electrodes, causing electrode dissolution. Also, the power supply for the furnaces will affect the usage of the graphite electrodes, the low pressure and high current power supply system will result in a short arc length, with the arc being displaced outward due to magnetic forces. What's more, the arc column stirs slag, subjecting graphite electrodes to vigorous erosion and corrosion.

 

Another consumption normally happens on the electrode side, which refers to the oxidation and consumption of the electrode surface. While the graphite electrodes reach a certain degree, oxygen penetrates its surface for oxidation, the oxidation rate might accelerate accordingly. Electrode surface temperature, oxygen partial pressure on the surface and airflow velocity are decided on the oxidation rate on the electrode side.

 

Under the instruction of usage, the quality of the graphite electrodes is the essential factor for the consumption rate. It's easy to understand better quality comes with comparing low consumption rates. In Xinhui Carbon, we have a strict quality control system making sure every graphite electrode can meet standards. Any questions or concerns are welcome via contacting us on the website.