Precautions of Using Graphite Electrode

Graphite electrode can be divided into ordinary power graphite electrode, high power graphite electrode and ultra-high power graphite electrode according to the quality index.The physical and chemical properties of high power and ultra-high power graphite electrodes are superior to those of ordinary power graphite electrodes. They are characterized by low resistivity, large volume density, high mechanical strength, small linear expansion coefficient and excellent oxidation resistance.

Next, it will introduce the cautions of using graphite electrode.

(1) Refer to the capacity of the electric furnace and the transformer when selecting the type and diameter of the electrode.

(2) Handle with care to protect the thread and prevent collision damage in the process of loading, unloading, and transportation.

(3) Prevent graphite from dampness in the course of transport and storage, otherwise it needs to be dried before use.

(4) Before connection, the dust in the screw thread of the electrode joint hole shall be blown off with compressed air, and then the joint and the electrode shall be tightened. The tightening force distance shall be in accordance with the regulations. In order to ensure that the electrodes of different specifications can reach the required tightening distance when connected, some electric furnace steel plants specially manufactured a tightening hand with a sign showing the tightening torque to ensure the correct operation. The gripper shall be clamped below or above the bottom of the electrode joint hole.

(5) The electrode lifting device of the electric furnace should be flexible in response. It should not be shaken during operation to prevent electrode breaking or joint loosing and tripping.

(6) Place the bulk material at the lower part to prevent the collapse material from breaking the electrode during melting when charging into the furnace.

(7) During the refining period, the graphite electrode shall not be immersed in the molten steel to carburize, so as to prevent the electrode from becoming thin and causing the electrode to break or the joint to drop.

In order to prevent looseness and tripping of the electrode joint, it is recommended to use the joint pin.