Estimate of secondary voltage across each electrode
Estimate of secondary current through each electrode
Resistance of the arc medium
Current density below each electrode
Power density below each electrode
Monitoring of electrical parameters at intervals of ten minutes
Monitoring of the data every hour

The power distribution through electrodes must be uniform for ideal operation. Ideally, the voltage and current through each electrode must be the same. The power distribution and current distribution along the axial and radial directions must be such that distributions are uniform and are at the optimum level for maximum efficiency of operation. Non-uniform distribution will lead to uneven charge descent; excessive erosion of refractory in some regions; accumulation of un-reacted material in some regions; ineffiecient use of furnace volume; excessive erosion of electrode(s). Monitoring of arc resistance is vital for controlling the process. Ideally, the resistance must be maintained constant throughout the operation, after allowing for changes during tapping of metal and subsequent build-up of charge under the electrodes.

Monitoring the secondary current and voltages at short time intervals and taking corrective action to maintain balance of power supply among the three electrodes.
Maintaining appropriate secondary voltage and current among the electrodes.
Maintaining the optimum arc-resistance.
Maintaining the optimum power density and current density profiles.