Graphite electrode arc furnace steelmaking is showing a rising trend in steel production enterprises, with the current proportion of electric furnace steel reaching around 30%. Electric arc furnace steelmaking uses graphite electrodes as conductive materials. The consumption of graphite electrodes in electric arc furnace steelmaking depends not only on the quality of the electrodes, but also on the level of steelmaking operation and management.
Today, we will discuss measures to reduce the oxidation consumption of graphite electrodes during electric arc furnace steelmaking, with the aim of providing insights that can improve the operation and utilization of graphite electrodes in the steelmaking process.
What are the measures to reduce electrode oxidation consumption during electric arc furnace steelmaking?
The main measures to reduce oxidation consumption are:
(1) Decrease the oxidation consumption around the electrode perimeter by enhancing the furnace’s sealing to minimize air ingress; limit the exposure time of red-hot electrodes outside the furnace, and standardize oxygen lancing operations.
(2) For smelting furnaces, if conditions permit, the use of spray cooling technology for the electrodes can effectively reduce side oxidation consumption.
(3) Steel mills can spray anti-oxidant substances on the electrode surface, or electrode manufacturers can treat electrodes with anti-oxidant impregnation technology before shipping to enhance the anti-oxidation properties of the electrode body.
Incorporating these methods helps reduce electrode oxidation in electric arc furnace steelmaking, leading to longer-lasting electrodes and improved efficiency. Improved furnace sealing, spray cooling, and anti-oxidant treatments all contribute to more durable electrodes, promoting a more sustainable and cost-effective steelmaking process.
