Essential Guidelines for Use of Graphite Electrodes

Here we conclude some guidelines for use of graphite electrode as following: 

1. Adjust the electrode phase sequence, which should be in counterclockwise direction in AC EAF.
2. Put the scraps evenly in the furnace and put the larger ones at the bottom position.
3. Don’t mix the non-conductive materials into the scraps or gather non-conductive materials like lime just under the electrodes to affect the electrical conductivity and cause the breakage.
4. Make sure the electrode columns are aligned with the furnace roof hole and keep the electrode columns parallel; always keep the wall of furnace roof hole clean to avoid the accumulation of residual slag.
5. Maintain the furnace tilting system in good condition to keep the furnace tilting stable.
6. Don’t put the clamper at the connecting position or socket position.
7. Don’t mix the electrodes and nipples produced by different manufacturers because the chemical and physical properties of the electrodes and nipples produced by different manufacturers are various due to the different raw materials and production processes.
8. Keep the electrodes end surface neat without oxidation and impurities to ensure a solid connection.
9. Prevent the electrode socket and nipple thread from mechanical damage before and during the connection.
10. Keep the electrode socket and nipple clean without slag and any impurities through blowing the surface with compressed air before connection.
11. Keep the furnace well sealed to reduce the electrode oxidation consumption; minimize the exposure time of the hot electrode out of the furnace.
12. The spray cooling device can effectively reduce the electrodes surface oxidation consumption in LF.
13. Use the recommended torque and wrench.