DIGITAL ELECTRODE OBSERVATION

A system is provided for recording information relating to the condition of electrodes in an electric arc furnace. An imaging apparatus is provided in a consistent position relative to an imaging station. Periodically, the electrode columns are removed from the furnace and moved to a position such that the electrode column is placed at the imaging station. Then an image of the electrode column is created with the imaging apparatus, and the images are stored in a memory of a computer for subsequent analysis.