Graphitized Cathode Block for Aluminium Smelting, SK-B®
Graphitized Cathode Block for Aluminium Smelting, SK-B®
Supporting Aluminium Smelters Globally with the Highest Quality
Graphitized cathode blocks for aluminium smelting are used as the cathode (negative electrode) blocks in electrolytic cells decompose alumina through electrolysis.
- A Pioneer of High-Quality Graphitized Cathode Blocks
- Approximately 40% Global Market Share*
- Contributing to Carbon Neutrality by Reducing Power Consumption in Aluminium Smelting
Based on our estimates for the graphitized cathode block market, excluding China
About
About
How Aluminium is Produced
Aluminium is produced by extracting alumina from bauxite, then electrolyzing the alumina to further extract the metal which is referred to as aluminium “smelting.”
Cathode Blocks: Essential for Aluminium Smelting
In an electrolytic cell, electricity flows from the anode (positive electrode) to the cathode (negative electrode), for the production of aluminium.Cathode blocks are an essential component in this process
Model of Aluminium Electrolysis Cell
Aluminium is produced from alumina through electrolysis.
Features
Features
Pioneer in Graphitized Cathode Blocks
In 1970, we became the first company in the world to produce fully graphitized high quality cathode blocks.This product was co-developed with Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. (then Sumitomo Chemical Industries, Ltd.), and Kyowa Carbon Co., Ltd. (merged with our company in 1986). The name “SK-B®” (SUMITOMO-KYOWA BLOCK) was established in 1971.
Superior Performance
There are two types of cathode blocks: fully graphitized cathode blocks and non-graphitized cathode blocks.
- Non-Graphitized Cathode Block
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Semi-Graphitic Block
…Formed and baked using graphite powder and anthracite as raw material.
Graphitic Block
…Formed and baked using only graphite powder as raw material.
- Graphitized Cathode Block
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…Formed, baked and graphitized using coke as raw material.
Graphitized cathode blocks are of higher quality than non-graphitized ones, contributing to longer cell life and less power consumption, thereby lowers cost of aluminium smelters.
Aluminium is often referred to as “canned electricity” due to the enormous energy required during its process. Thus, reducing power consumption is a major challenge for aluminium smelters. SEC CARBON’s high-quality graphitized cathode blocks extend cell life and help reducing power consumption.
Reduction in Power Consumption
Switching from non-graphitized cathode blocks to graphitized cathode blocks can reduce power consumption by 3.4%.
For example, at a smelter producing 500,000 tons annually, this results in power consumption and approximately 11million USD1/year cost savings.
Contribution to Society
Contribution
Reliable Technology
The lifespan of electrolytic cells is typically 5 to 7 years, after which the cathode blocks are replaced. If there is failure in cathode blocks during this period, the cell must be rebuilt, causing additional cost and workload to the smelter. Therefore, cathode blocks must offer stable long-term performance.
As a pioneer in graphitized cathode blocks, SEC CARBON has consistently provided high-quality products and built strong trust with our customers. Supported by our reliable technology and trust, we hold a 40% share of the global graphitized cathode block market.
We will continue to take on the challenges faced by our customers, supporting the stable production of aluminum.
Contributing to Sustainable Aluminium Smelting
Global aluminium demand will keep increasing due to its light weight, corrosion resistance, and high recyclability. It is widely used in industries such as automotive and construction.
Although aluminium smelting requires substantial electricity, SEC CARBON’s high-quality graphitized cathode blocks help reducing power consumption.
As the global movement toward carbon neutrality being accelerated, demand for graphitized cathode blocks is expected to grow.
As a pioneer in graphitized cathode blocks, SEC CARBON continues to lead the industry meet customer expectations, contributing to carbon neutrality through our cathode blocks for aluminium industry.
