The electrode paste can withstand high temperatures and has a small thermal expansion coefficient. It has a relatively small resistivity, which can reduce the loss of electrical energy. With a small porosity, the electrode in the heated state can be oxidized slowly. The high mechanical strength prevents the electrode from breaking due to the influence of mechanical and electrical loads.

The electric current is smelted by the electric arc produced by the electrode input into the furnace. The electrode occupies an extremely important position in the entire electric furnace. Without it, the electric furnace cannot produce an effect. To make the electrode work normally at the temperature generated by the arc, it must have a high degree of oxidation resistance and conductivity. This is only the electrode made of carbon material, because the carbon electrode can withstand up to 3500 ℃ The arc temperature only slowly oxidizes.