30+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN CARBON INDUSTRY

I. Methods for Handling Electrode Soft Breaks

1. Once an electrode soft break is detected, immediately cut off the power. Operators should not gather too closely; only the main operators should handle the situation. Quickly lower the electrode into the furnace, take measures to prevent the electrode paste from flowing out, and rapidly loosen the electrode to reconnect it with the broken end. Pry and remove the electrode paste near the break, then restore power and bake at a low load. The phase with the soft break is not allowed to be raised. The load can be increased based on the baking condition of the electrode, and it typically takes about 6–8 hours for baking to complete.

2. If the broken end cannot be reconnected and the electrode paste has dried up with no possibility of flow, release some electrode material—the amount determined by the electrode dimensions—and bake at a low load using the same method as above.

3. If the broken end cannot be reconnected, the electrode paste is very thin and may gush out in large amounts, or if too much paste has flowed out leaving it nearly empty, weld a section of bottomed iron casing (similar to the electrode head used during new furnace startup) and add new electrode paste. Bake using the same method as before, but pay special attention to the electrode air supply and the cooling water flow for the conducting jaw plates.

II. How to Prevent Electrode Soft Break Accidents

1. Reasonably control the electrode air supply and the cooling water flow for the conducting jaw plates. This requires operators to diligently conduct inspections and promptly adjust the air and water volumes to ensure normal electrode baking.

2. Exercise extreme caution when lowering the electrode. Increase the load boldly but carefully, closely observe changes in the electrode, and promptly reduce the load if the electrode condition deteriorates. If necessary, cut off the power for handling.

3. Regularly inspect the quality of the electrode paste and avoid using substandard electrode paste.

4. Strictly check the quality of the electrode iron casing and welding to ensure they meet the technical standards specified.

5. Strictly adhere to the electrode management system. Lower the electrode according to regulations, carefully control the interval time, refill the electrode paste on schedule, and maintain the specified height and working length of the electrode.