What are the applications of electrode paste in the steelmaking process of electric arc furnace?

The application of electrode paste in the steelmaking process of electric arc furnace is mainly reflected in the following aspects:
 
1. Conductive material: Electrode paste is the main conductive material for electric arc furnaces, used to connect power sources and furnace materials. Through electrode paste, current is conducted, converting electrical energy into heat energy, heating furnace materials to achieve melting and reaction purposes.
 
2. Arc generation: In an electric arc furnace, an arc is generated between the top of the electrode paste and the furnace material. The high temperature generated by the arc can quickly heat the furnace material, causing the scrap steel, ferroalloys, etc. in the furnace material to melt rapidly.
 
3. Participate in chemical reactions: The electrode paste in the electric arc furnace not only serves as a conductive material, but also directly participates in chemical reactions. For example, in the steelmaking process, carbon in the electrode paste can react with oxygen to provide heat, and can also undergo a reduction reaction with iron oxides in the furnace charge to generate iron and carbon dioxide.
 
4. Adjusting the atmosphere inside the arc furnace: The amount and type of electrode paste added can adjust the atmosphere inside the arc furnace, thereby affecting the progress of chemical reactions inside the furnace. For example, by controlling the carbon content in the electrode paste, the degree of oxidation-reduction reaction in the furnace can be adjusted.
 
5. Impact on the quality of steel: The performance and quality of electrode paste directly affect the thermal efficiency and quality of steel in the arc furnace steelmaking process. High quality electrode paste can improve thermal efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and also help improve the quality of steel.
 
In summary, electrode paste plays a crucial role in the steelmaking process of electric arc furnace, and its performance and quality directly affect the steelmaking efficiency and steel quality. Therefore, in the process of electric arc furnace steelmaking, the reasonable selection and use of electrode paste is crucial.