Abstract: A cylindrical graphite electrode with a consumable end includes one or more slots comprising a discontinuous portion of the carbon which extend along the length of the carbon body through at least a portion of the cross-section substantially to the consumable end. The slot may extend from the surface into the body or the slot may extend within the body below the surface. The slot may be filled with a carbonaceous material different from the carbon of the body. The slot may extend helically along the length and around a portion of the periphery of the body. The slots may be formed prior to or after heat treating of the electrode. As the electrode is exposed to a thermal shock, a crack is initiated in and propagates along the electrode and intersects with the slot, wherein substantial further growth of the crack is arrested at the slot.