A carbon paste is a key component in the manufacture of carbon electrodes for metallurgical applications. The carbon paste is a carefully blended mixture of petroleum coke calcinated and coal pitch. This combination gives it exceptional properties, allowing it to resist high temperatures and harsh chemicals found in the metal-production process. It also has the ability to conduct electricity, making it a valuable tool in the smelting of aluminum and other metals.
Electrode paste is growing due to the demand for alloys and steel in automotive and construction. Further, the increasing manufacturing sector around the world and a move to greater energy efficiency are fueling demand for more advanced formulations. The increasing demand for carbon anodes used in the production of primary aluminum is another significant driver boosting the electrode paste market.
Price fluctuations in the raw materials supply can be a major challenge to growth of electrode paste markets. Because the manufacturing of electrodes paste is dependent on certain raw materials which can be subject to global price fluctuation, this problem arises. The price fluctuations can have a significant impact on the cost of the electrode paste, and therefore the growth of the global market.
The price fluctuations of the raw materials do not stop manufacturers from developing innovative formulations to improve performance and reduce costs. The industry is expected to grow in the next few years.
Electrode paste can also be used for other metalurgical processes, such as the production of ferroalloys and calcium carbides. This product is essential to these processes because of its unique properties. The carbon electrode conducts the electric current, ensuring a constant and efficient process.
Electrode pastes are usually fed to the column of a smelting oven in the shape of eggs, cylinders and briquettes. There are different dimensions to match the electrode size. It is baked into a carbon anode when the paste goes in to the electrode column.
Orient Carbon has a selection of electrode products suitable for varying applications. This includes Soderberg type electrode paste which is made from an electrically calcined coal (ECA) and liquid coal pitch. In a Sigma type mixer, the paste is heated and mixed until it reaches the desired plasticity. The quantity of liquid coal tar is adjusted according to the desired plasticity and the chemical composition of the paste. The mixture is then poured into the electrode case and baked at a specific temperature. The paste softens and melts while moving downward in the electrode. This allows for a uniform material distribution within the electrode. It is now ready for use in the melting process.
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