UHP Graphite Electrode Price

UHP graphite electrode price is of concern to many industries and electric arc furnace steel production and other industries. Because they are key conductive raw materials used in high-temperature processes such as electric arc furnace steel production.  The current price of uhp graphite electrode is between US$2,200 and US$2,500 per ton.  Steel plant pay attention to electrode prices in order to ensure that costs are controlled during the production process, improve production efficiency and maintain good profit levels.

UHP Graphite Electrode Price influencing factors

Raw material cost: Graphite electrodes are mainly made of petroleum coke and needle coke. Fluctuations in the prices of these raw materials will affect the overall production cost of graphite electrodes.

Supply and Demand: The balance of market supply and demand can significantly affect prices. If demand exceeds supply or supply chains are disrupted, prices may rise.

Energy costs: The production of graphite electrodes involves high-temperature processes, and the roasting and graphitization processes require large amounts of electricity. Changes in energy prices can affect overall manufacturing costs.

Quality and specifications: Needle coke content is different, ranging from 30% to 100%, and graphite electrode prices are different. Customers typically pay a premium for electrodes that meet strict quality standards.

Market Conditions: Overall economic conditions and market dynamics can affect prices. Factors such as economic growth, industrial activity, and global trade tensions may impact the graphite electrode market.

Price trend of the UHP graphite electrode

According to Fastmarkets, prices for high power (HP) and ultra high power (UHP) graphite electrodes in China are already at a high level in early 2022 and are expected to rise further, with fob China prices for UHP graphite electrodes rising from $3,460 to $4,250 to $4,560 per ton. That’s an increase of 19.05%.

At the same time, demand is growing, and the global graphite electrode market size is estimated to be $5.21 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach $8.91 billion by 2032. This growth trend reflects the increasing demand for graphite electrodes, especially in the Asia Pacific region.

Why is expensive?

The processing performance is excellent

• The graphite electrode is easier to process and faster than other materials (such as copper). Reduce production costs. In addition, graphite is not easy to deform during processing, which helps to ensure the dimensional accuracy of the electrode.

Low resistance:

•  The low resistance of the graphite electrode means that it has excellent electrical conductivity. This allows the graphite electrode to conduct current efficiently in the electric arc furnace, thereby improving the efficiency of the steelmaking process.

Reduced energy loss:

• Low resistance helps reduce energy loss because the current encounters less resistance as it passes through the material, which helps reduce operating costs and improve energy efficiency. In applications that require rapid heating, such as EDM, low-resistance graphite electrodes can reach the required temperature faster, increasing processing speed and efficiency.

High density:

• High-density graphite electrodes have better mechanical strength and rigidity, which allows them to withstand higher pressures and impact forces, suitable for applications that need to withstand heavy loads. The high density also means that the graphite electrode has better wear resistance, which helps to extend the service life of the electrode and reduce wear during long periods of use. High-density graphite electrodes exhibit better thermal stability at high temperatures, which allows them to maintain their shape and performance in high-temperature processing environments and is not prone to deformation.

Low coefficient of thermal expansion:

• The low coefficient of thermal expansion of the graphite electrode means that its size changes less when the temperature changes. This is essential for applications that require precise control of dimensions, such as precision mold manufacturing. During high temperature machining, the low coefficient of thermal expansion helps to reduce cracks and deformation due to thermal stress, thereby improving the quality and reliability of the workpiece.In long-term high-temperature operations, graphite electrodes with low coefficient of thermal expansion can maintain their performance, reduce maintenance and replacement needs caused by thermal expansion

The Price range of the UHP graphite electrode

According to different specifications (mainly power、diameter and length) of graphite electrodes, the price will vary.

Ultra-high power (UPH) graphite electrode

Diameter 300mm-600mm

Price range: USD 21,00 to USD25,00 per tonne

Specific price range for different specifications

• Diameter 300mm-450mm

Ultra high power: 2000 to 2100 USD per ton

• Diameter 500mm-600mm

Ultra high power: 2200 to 2500 USD per ton

When diameter greater than 600mm: such as 750mm、800mm

Ultra high power: 2600 to 3000 USD per ton

Prices may be higher, depending on the particular application and customer needs.

Conclusion:

The price of UHP graphite electrode is affected by raw materials and supply market factors. They are essential for large-tonnage arc furnace steelmaking due to their unique properties. The graphite electrode use in this context is critical, as these electrodes, made with high-quality materials and advanced technology, offer excellent electrical conductivity, strength, and temperature resistance. These attributes ensure the efficient operation of electric arc furnaces and rapid steel refining. The high electrical conductivity and thermal stability of UPH electrodes are vital for maintaining stable performance in high-temperature metallurgy, improving the efficiency and quality of EAF steelmaking. As a result, the UPH graphite electrode is a key factor in ensuring efficient steel production and reducing long-term operational costs.