can we reuse graphite electrode, when it was used in electrochemical reduction of metal oxide in pressance of molten salt.after removing graphite electrode, washed, it can be reused or not. any changes will come?

Dear student,

Graphite electrodes are thick, long pieces of graphite that are used to conduct electricity in electric arc furnaces, which are large recycling machines for scrap steel parts and a part of the die casting process. Graphite is the only material that can handle temperatures to that extreme and also exhibit such good electrical conductivity. Graphite electrodes are also used to refine steel in ladle furnaces, other smelting processes and gouging operations like forming bevel and grooves in some metal products. They can also remove defects in castings and weldings. Graphite electrodes are formed via the extrusion process and are joined together by threading on both ends. They aid in melting all different types of steel scrap—automotive parts, leftover trim pieces from manufacturing processes, and other used mechanical parts from the aerospace and transportation industries. These discarded scrap pieces are always recycled, and may be melted down and reused many times. Different types of graphite electrodes are chosen based on various application considerations. Furnace design, scrap requirements, charging practice, burner and oxygen use, water spray rings, fume control system, melt down time, power level and slug practice are all considerations when determining the particle size, shape and length of the electrode.

Graphite electrodes play an important role in the melting of scrap metal parts. The metal parts are first deposited into a large pot. Electrodes are components of the roof structure of the furnace. They are between 3 and 30 inches in diameter, the very largest of which weighs over 2 tons. A series of electrodes are assembled in columns and screwed together. Once the lid closes, the electrodes are lowered until their tip touches the scrap metal. Next, high volts of electricity flow through the electrodes and onto the scrap metal. The electrode tips are so hot they often reach 5000º F, and are able to melt the scrap metal. Graphite is the only known mineral or material able to withstand temperatures like this. However, these graphite electrodes are still coated with siloxane fluid, which reduces high temperature oxidation since even graphite will begin to oxidize after a certain amount of time. Once the steel has become completely molten, it is poured into die cast molds, where it takes a certain shape and solidifies.