Graphite manufacturing companies are of the view that this graphite electrodes has become a boon for a variety of industries all across the globe.
Graphitization is the use of thermal activation to orderly convert thermodynamically unstable carbon atoms from chaotic layer structure to graphite crystal structure. Today, we are aware that graphite mining for the battery industries has become highly important. Apart from this, steel recycling and the melting processes utilize a specialized piece of equipment called an arc furnace to melt and extract metals. In this setup, large graphite electrodes carry high amounts of electricity and turn red-hot. But do you know why is graphite the choice for electrodes? How should you manufacture these electrodes? We are here to answer all these questions.
Reasons For Usage Of Graphite In Electrodes
- Graphite is an excellent conductor of electricity. The structure of graphite is such that it has a large number of electrons floating freely between the different layers of atoms. These electrons act as a powerful conductor, enabling the electrolysis process to progress smoothly.
- Graphite also has a high melting point. This enables it to be a suitable element for a wide range of electrolysis reactions.
- It is cheap, robust, and also, easily accessible, making it more apt for common uses.
The Process Of Manufacturing Graphite Electrodes
- To begin the process, the raw materials undergo grounding together. Next, they mix with a liquid pitch. Pitch is a tar type of resin. When mixed with the raw materials, it forms a graphite mixture that goes into the molds. It is then important to vibrate this mixture at high speed to make it more compact.
- The second step is the baking process. The electrodes turn into pitch coke and also, bake, creating a solid electrode. The texture of the electrolyte plays a crucial role. Hence, to improve the texture, the electrodes enter an autoclave where they soak up the liquid pitch. Finally, when soaking is complete, they bake again to solidify their composition.
- This is the final step where baking the electrodes at 3000 degrees Celsius proceeds. In order to create a completed product, some machining (to customer specifications and needs) is important.
To ensure a stable ecosystem, the largest graphite mining companies in India are employing better mining technology. This will pave way for ethical mining activities. Skamord Mining is one such company that is focusing on areas like exploration, mine planning, construction, mineral extraction, mine closure, and also, post-closure reclamation.
