（1） Processing Forms of Graphite Materials

There are three main forms of processing graphite electrodes: pressurized vibration method, CNC automatic forming method, and mechanical processing method.

(1) Pressurized vibration method: Pressurized vibration method requires special machine tools, and the electrode mother mold is opposite to the electrode shape. Graphite materials and forming tools are placed relative to each other during processing, leaving a certain gap. A machining fluid mixed with water and abrasive is injected into it. Ultrasonic vibration of graphite and forming tools occurs while passing through the processing fluid. Under the action of abrasive impact force, graphite is slightly peeled off to form the desired shape. The abrasive is SiC, B4C, or diamond. The coarser the abrasive, the faster the processing speed. When the machine tool is working, it adopts sealed type and water curtain type for processing. EDM machining suitable for mass production.

(2) CNC automatic forming method: CNC automatic forming method requires a dedicated graphite electrode forming machine, which adopts CNC mode and has an automatic tool exchange device, which can accommodate multiple tools. To improve the processing environment, the graphite electrode is surrounded by a water curtain to prevent graphite dust from spreading around. In addition, wet machining can also be used, using water-soluble cutting fluid to prevent tool wear and graphite dust dispersion. The machine tool has a high-performance filtering device that can separate the cutting fluid and graphite chips, ensuring long-term continuous processing. It is an ideal special equipment for graphite electrode processing, suitable for mold electrode processing. However, its price is high and its application in China is not widespread.

(3) Mechanical processing method: Mechanical processing method is the main method used by general mold production units in China.

Graphite materials can be processed by turning, milling, drilling, and grinding methods. In addition, graphite materials are prone to fly ash during machining, which has adverse effects on processing equipment and operators.

（2） Processing procedures for graphite materials

1) Graphite is immersed in oil. "Before machining graphite materials, they should be immersed in engine oil for tens of hours to allow oil to penetrate into the graphite material, so that the dust will not fly during machining and a smoother surface can be obtained.".

2) Paint scribing. After rough machining of the outer surface of the electrode, a thin layer of white paint is sprayed on the scribed surface before scribing, so that the lines are clear and convenient for mechanical processing.

3) Perform machining.