Graphite Electrodes

Graphite electrodes are reliable and inexpensive. They have a surprisingly long life, about 20 years for

 standard industrial applications. Graphite electrodes date back to the 19th century but were not commonly manufactured until the early 20th century.

Graphite is an abundant mineral that can be used to produce many different things, like pencils and heat conduction elements in electrical equipment. Its even naturally found in nature as a black sand beach sand (commonly called "black sand").

Graphite is mined in three different ways: a) Surface Mining, b) Underground Mining, and c) Strip Mining. 

Surface mining occurs when the graphite is on or near the surface. It is commonly cleaned by using water or air to wash away the dirt, clay, and sand. The graphite can then be extracted by hand or heavy machinery.

Graphite deposits can also be found underground through excavating into the earth called "underground mining". electrodes are manufactueed from coke