Graphite Electrodes for Melting Arc Furnace: Carbon Electrode Rod RP/HP/SHP/UHP With Nipples
Melting arc furnaces (EAFs) rely on graphite electrodes to convert electrical energy into heat for scrap metal melting. Among the critical components, carbon electrode rods-available in RP (Regular Power), HP (High Power), SHP (Super High Power), and UHP (Ultra-High Power) grades with nipples-are designed to optimize performance across diverse melting scenarios.
RP Electrodes (75–150mm): Ideal for small EAFs (30–100 tons), RP rods balance cost and functionality. Their coarser grain structure (100–200 μm) provides sufficient mechanical strength for occasional thermal cycling, while resistivity (60–80 μΩ·m) keeps energy costs manageable.
HP Electrodes (200–300mm): For mid-sized EAFs (100–200 tons), HP rods use finer grains (50–100 μm) and extended graphitization (2,800°C) to reduce resistivity (50–60 μΩ·m). This enables higher currents (80–100 kA) and faster melting cycles (60–90 minutes).
SHP/UHP Electrodes (300–700mm): Reserved for large EAFs (200+ tons), SHP (50–55 μΩ·m) and UHP (<50 μΩ·m) rods feature ultra-fine grains (<50 μm) and isostatic pressing for uniform density. Their low resistivity minimizes energy loss, while high flexural strength (>12 MPa) withstands extreme thermal and mechanical stress.
Nipples (threaded connectors) are critical for all grades, ensuring secure, low-resistance links to furnace infrastructure. A well-machined nipple (tolerance ±0.5 mm) prevents arcing and power leakage, enhancing overall efficiency.
From small-scale recycling to mega-EAFs, graphite electrodes with nipples-tailored to RP, HP, SHP, or UHP grades-are indispensable for melting operations. Their ability to adapt to diverse needs makes them a linchpin of modern steelmaking.
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