Alcoa is the biggest consumer of CPC, accounting for 75% to 80% of worldwide demand. Carbonized CPC, which is used to produce electrodes that are used in electric-arc and induction furnaces in steel rolling and casting, is the main reason for this. CPC demand is not just driven by the steel sector. Cement and power generation are also major consumers.
The emergence of a new centre for CPC production in Asia, driven by China's need to build infrastructure to support its rapidly growing economy, has also transformed the market dynamic. Between 2012 and 2016, seven major new coking facilities are expected to be operational, with the industry's focus shifting from North America towards Asia. The latest Roskill report highlights that this shift in demand will likely result in shortages in anode grade coal.
CPC demand will increase across the globe, but in particular in emerging markets. This is because electricity generation in these countries is increasing rapidly. CPC is necessary to create the carbon electrodes used in electric arc and induction furnaces to melt steel. The demand for CPC will continue to increase.
Most smelters are currently blending coke types to improve the performance of electrolytic cells. Blending systems tend to be relatively simple. They consist of weight belts that concentrate the different types into fractions according to the characteristics of the recipe aggregate for anode manufacturing. Smelters tend to prefer cokes higher in S and with lower metal content. Low V/S coke is then used as the coarsest portion of the recipe for maximum anode densities.
calcined coal is used in many other applications, including abrasives. paper, paint and titanium dioxide. Petcoke's spongy texture makes it ideal for the production of aluminum anodes that are essential to the operation and efficiency of electric arc furnaces and induction ovens used in the production and processing of alloys like tin and brass.
Asia Pacific will hold 40% of the market for calcined koke in 2021. This growth is due to an expansion of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, dams and construction across countries such as India. A growing population will lead to an increase in the number of homes being built, increasing demand for CPC. CPC will also be consumed in the region due to initiatives by the Indian Government such as Housing for All 2022 and 100 smart Cities.
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