GrafTech International (NYSE:EAF) (NYSE: EAF) is a leading global manufacturer of graphite electrodes and other specialty graphite products used primarily in electric arc furnaces (EAFs) for steel production. The company’s core offerings include ultrahigh-power, high-power and regular power electrodes, along with related accessories such as graphite shapes and heterogeneous carbon materials. These products play a critical role in steelmaking by conducting the high electrical currents required to melt scrap steel efficiently and with reduced environmental impact compared to traditional blast furnace methods.
With a manufacturing footprint spanning North America, Europe and Asia, GrafTech serves steel producers and foundries worldwide. The company operates major production facilities in Ohio, Mexico and France, allowing it to maintain a stable supply of electrodes and specialty graphite parts to key markets in China, India, the United States and Western Europe. GrafTech’s vertically integrated production model begins with petroleum coke and coal tar pitch and extends through calcining, graphitization and machining, giving it greater control over quality, cost and delivery performance.
Founded more than a century ago, GrafTech has evolved through several corporate structures and ownership changes, ultimately becoming a publicly traded independent company in 2018. This transition followed its acquisition and private ownership phase under Brookfield Asset Management, during which GrafTech invested in technological upgrades, expanded capacity and strengthened its research and development capabilities. Its long history in carbon science and engineering underpins ongoing efforts to develop next-generation electrode compositions and improve energy efficiency in metallurgical processes.
GrafTech’s leadership team is focused on driving operational excellence, innovation and sustainable growth. Under the direction of President and Chief Executive Officer Robert J. Rigdon, the company has emphasized customer collaboration, supply chain resilience and environmental stewardship. By leveraging its global network and proprietary know-how, GrafTech aims to meet rising demand for low-carbon steel and other specialty applications where high-performance graphite solutions are essential.
