Why a graphite electrode is used instead of metal electrode?

The main reason that graphite electrodes are used in electrolysis is that graphite is an excellent conductor. These electrons act as a powerful conductor, enabling the electrolysis process to progress smoothly. In addition, graphite is economical, stable at high temperatures and hard-wearing.

Why is copper better than graphite as electrode material?

Copper’s low melting point does not allow it to handle current density as effectively as graphite, so features on a single copper electrode must be similar in detail. Also, when machining intricate detail or EDMing at high current densities, a copper electrode may move or flex as material stress is relieved.

Can copper be used as an electrode?

Some of the most prominent alloys and materials used as electrode materials are copper, graphite, titanium, brass, silver, and platinum. Copper is second only to silver in terms of bulk electrical conductivity. Copper is a common base metal for electrical contact and electrode applications. …

Why are electrical wires made of copper and not graphite?

High Conductivity Surpassed only by silver, copper is a highly conductive metal. This means electricity can pass through it with greater ease, making it ideal for use in electrical wires.

Why graphite is not used as anode in electrolysis of water?

The reason this is difficult is because the anode is generating oxygen, and so the anode environment is strongly oxidizing and fiercely corrosive. If cost is no object, you can use platinum (or probably gold, or other noble metals).

Which non metal is used for electrodes?

Due to this nature being a non- metal graphite is used as an electrode.

Is graphite a better conductor than copper?

Copper is a better conductor than graphite for electricity due to its lattice structure with free electrons that can transmit energy across the structure, whilst graphite is still able to conduct electricity, it is not as strong a conductor as copper.

Why is graphite a good electrode?

Graphite is insoluble in water. It has a high melting point and is a good conductor of electricity, which makes it a suitable material for the electrodes needed in electrolysis . These delocalised electrons can all move along together – making graphite a good electrical conductor.

What is graphite electrode?

Graphite electrodes serve to transfer the electrical energy from the power supply to the steel melt in the EAF bath. They are typically made using premium petroleum needle coke, coal tar pitch, and some additives (Fruehan, 1998).

What type of electrode is copper?

Copper is purified by electrolysis . Electricity is passed through solutions containing copper compounds, such as copper(II) sulfate. The anode (positive electrode ) is made from impure copper and the cathode (negative electrode) is made from pure copper.

Why Copper is used in electrical wiring?

Why is copper used for most electrical wiring? To get an electrical current to flow through metals, the power source has to fight against resistivity. And since copper wire has a low level of resistivity, it’s a fantastic electrical conductor. Copper is also an incredibly flexible material.

Why are metals used for making metal cables?

Metals are good conductors of electricity and are ductile i.e. can be drawn into thin wires hence they are used for making wires.

What are the disadvantages of using graphite electrodes instead of copper electrodes?

Copper also has very low heating point. With quick heating copper electrodes develop a tendency to stick or melt. Another disadvantage, as compared to graphite electrodes is creation of burr. No matter what precautions you take, copper electrodes in most instances will need to undergo a deburring process.

What happens if you don’t flush copper electrodes?

If an eroded part is not flushed it may be possible to get a non-pulsating, direct flow of current from the electrode to the work piece, With copper electrodes such instances are arrested. Copper is a hard metal, as compared to graphite. Copper also has very low heating point.

What is the best electrode material to use with tungsten?

When you add tungsten to copper (copper tungsten), the result is an electrode material that has extremely good wear characteristics but is very difficult to machine, Haley notes. “When EDM’ing carbide, this is the best metallic electrode material to use. The best graphite material would be copper graphite,…

What is the best electrode material for EDM carbide?

“When EDM’ing carbide, this is the best metallic electrode material to use. The best graphite material would be copper graphite, which is graphite impregnated with copper,” he says.