Electric Arc Furnace Graphite Electrodes 200 250 300mm

Electric Arc Furnace Graphite Electrodes 200 250 300mm product parameters

What is the difference between graphite and copper electrodes?

Graphite and copper electrodes differ significantly in their physical properties, applications, and performance. ​​Conductivity​​: Copper has higher electrical conductivity than graphite (approximately 5.96×10⁷ S/m vs. 1×10⁵ S/m for graphite), making it preferable for low-resistance applications like electrical contacts or busbars.

However, graphite's thermal conductivity (119–165 W/m·K) is comparable to copper's (401 W/m·K), but graphite excels in high-temperature environments where copper softens or melts (copper's melting point is 1,085°C, vs. graphite's sublimation point of ~3,600°C).

​​Machinability​​: Graphite is brittle and easily machined into complex shapes with sharp edges, ideal for electrical discharge machining (EDM), where precise, intricate parts are needed. Copper, though ductile, is harder to machine into fine details and requires more aggressive cutting tools. ​​

Cost and Durability​​: Graphite is often cheaper for large-scale EDM applications and resists wear from spark erosion better than copper. Copper, however, is preferred in applications requiring high conductivity and low electrical loss, such as in power electronics or electrodes for welding.