Abstract: A method for removably holding an electrode for use in an electric-discharge machining (EDM) apparatus including a tool holder having an expandable collet. The method includes providing the collet in an unclamped position, receiving at least a portion of the electrode within an opening of the collet, and moving the collet to a clamped position using at least one of electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic power, wherein in the clamped position the collet exerts a radially inward force around a circumference of the electrode to facilitate fixedly holding the electrode.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a component using an electric-discharge machining (EDM) apparatus includes moving a tool holder of the apparatus to a position adjacent a source of a plurality of differently at least one of sized and shaped electrodes, gripping an electrode of the plurality of differently at least one of sized and shaped electrodes with the tool holder, moving the tool holder and the gripped electrode from adjacent the electrode source to a position adjacent a fixture having the component coupled thereto, and machining the component using the electrode.