Oxidation (side consumption)

Oxygen gas can oxidize on the surface of the graphite when the temperature exceeds 400 °C. Oxidation is exacerbated at temperatures above 550 °C to 600 °C.

The oxidation rate is sensitive to the oxygen concentration and gas flow rate near the electrode.

In the normal operation of the electric furnace, the oxidation consumption rate accounts for about 50% to 60% of the total pure consumption (except for the consumption of the break), and the main influence of the high temperature air flow is the largest.

Sublimation (side consumption)

At the high temperature, the graphite is easy to sublimate. Under normal operation, the sublimation consumption rate can reach 40% of the total electrode consumption (except for the consumption of the excess electrode). The excessive current will lead to the sublimation consumption.

Measures to reduce electrode sublimation consumption: Avoid excessive use of high currents.

Dissolve( End consumtion)

Graphite is easily melted in molten steel, so short arc work or impregnation will cause an increase in electrode consumption. When the slag layer is thick, the electrode end is partially contacted with the slag and is partially melted,

Broken (End consumption)

Electrode broken is caused by thermal strain caused by temperature differences. In the production, the electrode bottom is often at a high temperature, which causes the heat to distort and leads to the broken.

In general, excessively strong currents and short arcing can cause electrode broken. Therefore, long arc is better than short arc aims at reducing electrodes broken.

Breakage (broken consumption)

Electrode fracture usually occurs at the highest joint of the electrode column or at the joint thread hole, but the electrode body breakage occasionally occurs.

The electrode break usually breaks at the highest joint or joint of the electrode column, causing the electrode to break. The following reasons are as follows:

( l ) The position of the furnace cover is not correct and the electrode hole is not aligned ;
( 2 ) The electrode lift system is faulty or accidental ;
( 3 ) There are non – conductive materials under the electrodes ;
(4) The furnace tilting mechanism is unstable, and the brake is braked.
(5) The distribution of scrap steel in the furnace is unsuitable, and the bulk material collapses.
( 6 ) Mixing different products of the factory ;
( 7 ) The melting chemical industry is not suitable , and the upper part of the charge is bridged ;
(8) Improper use of the electrode.