Title

NEW ELECTRODES FOR ARC FURNACES

NEW ELECTRODES FOR ARC FURNACES

Authorship

FULGENZI, C. F.

FULGENZI, C. F.

I am this author

DOI

10.5151/2594-5300-24Aciaria-329-340

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Abstract

Since the introduction of electric arc furnace there have been projects to develop better electrodes. Graphite electrode improvements have facilitated open arc progress and many revolutionaries changes in furnace design and performance. Submerged arc furnaces, in general, use amorphous carbon, and there has been little change other than the self-baking Soderberg column to replace discrete pre-baked electrodes and their joints. Three active approaches for better carbon electrodes have achieved a high degree of success and show promise for commercialization. These are compared and related to the needs of furnace operators. Those who must use pre-baked electrodes can expect a dramatic reduction in electrode cost and elimination of joint related problems. Other users of self-baked systems will find significant value in new technology which can benefit them through process efficiencies and equipment utilization.

Since the introduction of electric arc furnace there have been projects to develop better electrodes. Graphite electrode improvements have facilitated open arc progress and many revolutionaries changes in furnace design and performance. Submerged arc furnaces, in general, use amorphous carbon, and there has been little change other than the self-baking Soderberg column to replace discrete pre-baked electrodes and their joints. Three active approaches for better carbon electrodes have achieved a high degree of success and show promise for commercialization. These are compared and related to the needs of furnace operators. Those who must use pre-baked electrodes can expect a dramatic reduction in electrode cost and elimination of joint related problems. Other users of self-baked systems will find significant value in new technology which can benefit them through process efficiencies and equipment utilization.