The influence of incomplete or excessive sintering of electrode paste
Electrode paste is a commonly used material in industrial production, mainly used for electrode manufacturing of high-temperature equipment such as electric arc furnaces and mineral heat furnaces. The quality of electrode paste directly affects the performance and service life of electrodes, which in turn affects the stability and efficiency of the entire production process. In the actual production process, the sintering quality of electrode paste is a key factor. Incomplete or excessive sintering can have adverse effects on electrode performance.
1、 The influence of incomplete sintering of electrode paste
Decreased conductivity:
Incomplete sintering of electrode paste can lead to a decrease in the conductivity of the electrode. Due to the insufficient graphitization of carbonaceous materials in the electrode paste, the resistance of the electrode increases, and more heat is generated when current passes through, leading to an increase in electrode temperature and even possibly causing electrode fracture.
Reduced mechanical strength:
The electrode paste that has not been fully sintered has lower mechanical strength and is prone to fracture and chipping. This not only affects the normal operation of the electric furnace, but may also lead to safety accidents.
Poor antioxidant performance:
Incomplete sintered electrode paste has poor oxidation resistance and is prone to react with oxygen in the air, generating carbon dioxide and other oxides, further weakening the structural stability of the electrode.
Shortened service life:
Due to the above reasons, electrode paste with incomplete sintering has a shorter service life and requires frequent replacement, which increases production costs and maintenance workload.
2、 The influence of excessive sintering of electrode paste
Increased brittleness:
Excessive sintering of electrode paste can become too brittle and hard, making it prone to cracking and fracture. Especially in high-temperature environments, excessively sintered electrodes are more prone to damage due to thermal stress.
Decreased thermal conductivity:
Excessive sintering can cause changes in the microstructure of electrode paste, increase porosity, and decrease thermal conductivity. This will affect the heat dissipation effect of the electrode, causing the electrode temperature to be too high, thereby affecting the thermal efficiency of the electric furnace.
Increased processing difficulty:
Excessive sintering of electrode paste results in higher hardness, which poses difficulties for subsequent processing and maintenance. For example, during the pressing and forming process of electrodes, excessively sintered electrode paste may lead to increased equipment wear and reduced processing efficiency.
Increased energy consumption:
Excessive sintering of electrode paste requires more electrical energy to maintain the same temperature and current intensity during use. This not only increases production costs, but also imposes a greater burden on the environment.