Abstract: A method of removing graphite from metal molds used in the glass fabrication industry, the method including placing a metal glass-fabricating mold with graphite bonded thereto in a chamber, providing an oxygen rich mixture of combustible gases in the chamber, said oxygen rich mixture containing from about 10 to about 25% stoichiometric excess of oxygen, and igniting the oxygen rich mixture of combustible gases in the chamber to produce a temperature of at least about 6,000° F. and a pressure wave. A high temperature wave front and the pressure wave thereby produced remove graphite from the metal mold by ablation of the graphite.