The graphite electrode manufacturing process is highly specialized, and requires an expert understanding of all the steps involved. The manufacturing process of graphite electrodes involves multiple stages. Each stage must be completed in order to ensure a high level of quality, and that the electrodes meet industrial needs. These include forming baking impregnation re-baking and graphitisation.
Globally, the market for graphite electrodes is expected to expand rapidly in the future due to an increase in steel production. The increase in construction and infrastructure project is responsible for the rise in steel production. In turn, this is fueling the demand for ferroalloys (non-ferrous) and nonferrous metals. In addition, the growing demand for lithium ion cells is expected to drive the graphite market.
Graphite is used as electrodes in the EAF steel production process. They are large cylindrical pieces of graphite with a diameter between 50 and 150mm. They are a vital consumable for EAF Steelmaking and represent around 82% market share.
To make an electrode, the needle coke must first be ground, fractionated and sifted. Then, it is mixed with coal pitch and fed to a mixing system using an enclosed transport system. Depending on the product recipe, additional additives may be added to obtain the desired composition. The mixture is then formed into an electrode by extrusion, compression molding or other methods. The green electrodes will then be baked in an oven or furnace to remove volatile materials and solidify the composition.
After the electrodes are formed and baked, special chemicals are used to increase the electrical conductivity. This step can be crucial to the manufacture of electrodes made from graphite, and it can also reduce production costs while increasing product performance. The resulting electrodes undergo a graphitisation, which converts carbon atoms to crystal form. This process makes the electrodes stronger and more durable.
Experts ensure that the graphite electrodes, nipples and other products are of high quality throughout the entire process. The experts will ensure they meet industry standards for quality, including the correct size, specification and grade.
A number of companies are focusing on mergers and acquisitions, partnerships and collaborations, and research and development to strengthen their position in the graphite electrode market. Showa Denko K.K. created a high-temperature graphite electrode that can used in ultrahigh power electric arches, which will revolutionise the industry. Moreover, GrafTech International Ltd announced the acquisition of Seadrift Coke L.P and C/G Electrodes LLC to expand its production capabilities and enter new markets. The graphite market will continue to grow rapidly, owing to increased steel production and electric vehicle demand.
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