# EDM electrodes

Essential components in the EDM process. Before manufacturing parts using EDM, the appropriate graphite grade must be selected.

Family: Electrical applications

## Description
Graphite EDM electrodes need structural uniformity, machinability and dimensional stability during sinker EDM. ESGRAF recommends the material family by finish, wear rate and geometry complexity.

For grade selection and specifications, see [EDM graphite](/en/materials/technical-graphite/edm). For finished electrodes to print, [graphite machining](/en/services/graphite-machining). Industry context: [EDM industry](/en/industries/edm).

## Processes
- Sinker EDM
- Electrode machining

## Challenges
- Uneven electrode wear
- Poor surface finish
- Incorrect grade selection

## Advantages
- Excellent machinability
- Good erosion performance
- Grades for fine finish or roughing

## Limitations
- Wear from arcing or electrical erosion
- Conductivity and density must be calibrated to the process
- Some grades are not suitable for high purity

- [Applications](https://esgraf.com/en/applications)
- [Alternate](https://esgraf.com/aplicaciones/edm-electrodos)