Suwan Kim, Technical Sales, Kanthal.Calcination and sintering involve exposing the cathode powder to temperatures of around 700-900°C (1,290-1,650°F) to remove any remaining water or binder from the drying process, and to fuse the metals tightly together. Precise temperature control throughout the process is critical, as it influences the electrochemical performance of the final product and results in a more optimal active material.
Many manufacturers inject heated oxygen into furnaces to speed up the heating process to maximize productivity. However, this can adversely affect the process by causing reactions and contamination and damaging its heating elements.
“The cathode manufacturing industry is still relatively new and at an early stage when developing its production processes,” says Suwan Kim, Technical Sales, Kanthal. “Manufacturers are investing a lot in new furnaces to keep up with demand. A major challenge for them is to improve the lifetime of furnace elements and other components.”
Offers solutions for any kiln
Kanthal boasts the broadest range of heating elements available on the market and can offer solutions for each of these types of furnaces.
Typically, the different furnace types used for calcination and sintering are roller hearth kilns, rotary kilns and pusher kilns. Kanthal boasts the broadest range of heating elements available on the market and can offer solutions for each of these types of furnaces. Silicon carbide (SiC) electric heating elements, Fibrothal® heating modules and Tubothal® metallic elements are just some of the options, depending on the furnace type and its design.
“We can provide technical support with all critical issues during the process to ensure precise temperature control,” says Kim. “Since this is such a new area, many manufacturers are reliant on the technical advice they can get from their suppliers. And while this is a new application for Kanthal too, we still have vast amounts of experience with different heating processes that we can utilize to help find an optimal solution.”
Global presence ensures consistent quality
The many cathode producers currently setting up new plants in multiple locations globally can benefit from Kanthal’s strong presence worldwide. This ensures a consistent high quality across all products regardless of location.
The benefits of working with Kanthal
- Extensive industry expertise – Decades of experience in industrial heating solutions.
- Comprehensive technical support – Expert guidance to support critical processes.
- Broadest range of heating elements – Tailored solutions for various furnace types.
- Global presence – Robust manufacturing and distribution networks across Europe, Asia, and the US.
- Shorter lead times – High production capacity and efficient logistics.
- Expanding manufacturing capabilities – Investing in increased production capacity to support the rising global demand.
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