Abstract: Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) utilizes electrodes made out of carbon, for example, in place of cutting tools. The shape of the electrode determines the shape of the part being machined. The EDM process wears down the carbon electrode cutting tool. By adhering fresh carbon material to the base of a carbon electrode as it wears down with a graphite and metallic powder-filled adhesive, the electrode can continue to be resurfaced indefinitely, thereby eliminating waste. In order to hold the carbon electrode more securely during initial shaping of the electrode, a metal base plate is used which is formed so that a portion of it fits into a cavity in the base of the carbon electrode. The carbon electrode is held fast to the metal base plate by countersunk bolts that engage threaded holds in the base plate. Flushing channels are provided through the metal base plate. Metal tooling clamps engage the metal base plate to hold it and the carbon electrode firmly against a tooling bed.