30+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN CARBON INDUSTRY

Recently, a customer inquired about electrode paste: Is it true that every manufacturer uses a different formula? This is an interesting question, as it leads us into the development history of electrode paste—a topic with a long and complex story.

Electrode paste, also known as self-baking electrodes, was first used in 1909 in the submerged arc furnace invented by Norwegian engineer C.W. Soderberg, replacing the previously widely used carbon electrodes. Early electrode paste formulations consisted of anthracite coal and coke as aggregates, with asphalt and tar serving as binders. Later, to meet performance requirements, graphitized coke or natural graphite was added to improve thermal conductivity. As submerged arc furnaces evolved toward larger sizes and more closed systems, electrode paste had to adapt to reduced heat conduction and improved sintering efficiency. Consequently, different manufacturers developed broadly similar but subtly distinct formulas based on their own experience, tailored to match the evolving demands of furnace technology.

Since its establishment in 1992, Rongxing's electrode paste formulation has evolved alongside industry advancements, undergoing multiple adjustments over time to develop a more refined and comprehensive system today. Whether for open, semi-open, or fully enclosed furnaces—small (5,000–10,000 KVA), medium (10,000–33,000 KVA), or large and even ultra-large units (48,000 KVA and above)—and regardless of application—ferro-silicon, ferro-nickel, silico-manganese, calcium carbide, ferro-manganese, refractory repair, or DC furnaces—Rongxing offers a suitable formula to meet customer needs and ensure satisfaction.

To answer the original question: Are electrode paste formulas truly different from one factory to another? The answer is this: within the same factory, the formula remains consistent for a given customer’s furnace, but it is not fixed forever. Furnaces age over time, and production requirements continuously change—sometimes operating at rated capacity (new furnaces), sometimes overloaded to meet high-volume demands. Different power levels require corresponding adjustments in electrode paste composition. Therefore, the likelihood of two manufacturers using identical formulas is extremely low.

Electrode paste is a product with a relatively low entry barrier but high technical demands. We welcome customers and researchers interested in learning more about electrode paste products to contact us—we look forward to growing together!