Needle coke is a specialized form of petroleum coke with unique properties that make it suitable for various industrial applications. Some of the main usages of needle coke include:

Graphite Electrodes: The primary and most significant usage of needle coke is in the production of graphite electrodes. Graphite electrodes are essential components used in electric arc furnaces (EAFs) for steelmaking. The high thermal conductivity, low electrical resistance, and mechanical strength of needle coke-based graphite electrodes enable efficient heat transfer, electrical conduction, and stability during the steelmaking process.

Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes: Needle coke is also used in the manufacturing of anodes for lithium-ion batteries. The high purity, thermal conductivity, and low electrical resistance of needle coke-based anodes contribute to improved battery performance, longer cycle life, faster charging rates, and increased energy density in lithium-ion batteries.

Aluminum Industry: In the aluminum industry, needle coke is utilized in the production of carbon anodes for the Hall-Héroult process, which is used to extract aluminum from alumina. The high purity, thermal conductivity, and low coefficient of thermal expansion of needle coke-derived anodes enable efficient and precise aluminum electrolysis, leading to high-quality aluminum production.

Electric Discharge Machining (EDM) Electrodes: Needle coke-based graphite electrodes are used in EDM processes, where precision machining of materials is required. The low electrical resistance and high mechanical strength of these electrodes facilitate efficient and precise material removal during the EDM process.

Nuclear and Aerospace Applications: In advanced nuclear and aerospace applications, needle coke-derived materials with high thermal conductivity and resistance to extreme temperatures play a vital role in certain components and materials used in these industries.

Refractories: Needle coke is sometimes used in the production of specialized refractory materials that can withstand high temperatures in industrial processes like steelmaking and aluminum production.

It's important to note that needle coke is a premium-grade material and is relatively expensive compared to other forms of petroleum coke. Its availability can also fluctuate based on market demand and supply. Due to its unique properties, needle coke is highly sought after for critical industrial applications that require materials with exceptional thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and purity.