Which petroleum by-product is used as electrodes in electric arc furnace melting operations?

Graphite electrodes are critically important in electric arc furnace (EAF) operations, primarily because of their excellent electrical conductivity, high thermal resistance, and the ability to withstand the extreme temperatures produced during melting. In an EAF, electricity is passed through the graphite electrodes, generating intense heat that melts the metal scrap being processed.

Graphite is the preferable choice over other forms of carbon because it can sustain the high electrical and thermal demands, allowing for efficient melting of steel and other metals. Additionally, graphite electrodes are chemically stable at high temperatures, which minimizes contamination of the melted materials.

Other carbon products, while potentially useful for certain applications, do not offer the same level of performance or reliability in EAF operations as graphite. For instance, anthracite coke or foundry coke might be used in other metallurgical processes or as fuel sources but fall short in the specific requirements of electrical conductivity and thermal stability that graphite electrodes provide in an electric arc furnace.