Which type of electrodes are used in the electric arc process?

Graphite electrodes are used in the electric arc process primarily because they are highly conductive and can withstand the extreme temperatures that occur during the process, which can reach thousands of degrees Celsius. The electric arc generates intense heat that vaporizes the carbon in the graphite electrode, allowing it to efficiently transfer energy in the form of heat and light, effectively melting the material being processed.

In addition to their excellent conductivity, graphite electrodes are also resistant to oxidation and can perform well in both oxidizing and reducing environments, which is crucial in industrial applications such as steelmaking. Consequently, they are the preferred choice in processes that require high temperatures and reliable performance, including the electric arc furnace used in steel production.

Other metals, like iron, nickel, or copper, do not possess the same thermal stability or conductivity at elevated temperatures, making them less suitable for such applications.