Molded Graphite Rods
Graphite is well known for its corrosion resistance and good thermal conductivity. At Semco, we have noted an uptick in a particular mechanical application of synthetic, high density graphite: molded graphite rods. With this large increase in requests for molded graphite rods in various diameters, we have decided to add a new piece of equipment that would allow us to substantially increase the volume of rods produced. This dowel rod machine takes high density graphite blocks, which can be machined with more precision than with less dense material, and shapes them into rods that are useful across industries, in a wide range of mechanical applications. Here’s a sampling of the uses of molded graphite rods:
Electrodes
Graphite rods are used in electrical discharge machining (EDM) as electrodes due to their ability to withstand high temperatures and thermal shock, as well as their ability to conduct electricity.
Batteries
Graphite rods are a key component in some types of batteries, like alkaline batteries and lithium-ion batteries.
Electrolysis
Graphite rods are important to this process, particularly in industries like metal refining and electroplating.
Reinforcement
Graphite rods can reinforce materials like concrete or composites due to their strength and lightweight nature.
Heat Resistance
In high-temperature applications, graphite rods are used due to their ability to withstand heat without deforming.
Control Rods
Graphite rods are used in some nuclear reactors as part of the control mechanism for regulating the nuclear reaction.
Laboratory Equipment
Graphite rods are used in scientific experiments, particularly in research involving high-temperature environments or as conductive elements in various setups.
Molding High Density Graphite into Rods
The new piece of equipment we obtained to meet the growing demand for molded graphite rods is called a dowel rod machine. Dowel rods are cylindrical rods which, in our case, will be manufactured out of high density synthetic graphite. These machines are designed to produce dowels of consistent diameter and length, ensuring that our clients know exactly what to expect from the machined product.
The process of shaping graphite rods involves feeding raw material through the machine, where it undergoes a series of cutting, shaping, and sanding operations to form the dowel rods. Our highly trained machinists monitor and control all the following stages of dowel rod machining:
Feeding Raw Material
Rectangle graphite blanks are typically fed into the machine. Semco’s graphite specialists will help clients select the graphite grade that meets the requirements for corrosion resistance, resistance to thermal shock, or any other specific needs the client has for the product.
Cutting and Shaping
The machine cuts the raw material into cylindrical shapes and then shapes them further to form the dowels.
Sanding
Dowels will pass through sanding belts or other mechanisms to smooth their surfaces. With high density graphite, surface finishes can be tailored to very precise requirements.
Cutting to Length
The dowel rods are cut to the desired length for the specific application.
With this increase in capability and capacity Semco now has with the new dowel rod machine, we will be able to efficiently produce a large variety of graphite rod diameters in increased volumes. If your company has a need for molded graphite rods, we are now able to fill even very high-volume orders.