Abstract: Selfsupporting mastlike corona discharge electrodes are proposed for use in a dustcollecting electrostatic precipitator having gas passage-forming platelike collecting electrodes. From a metal strip which has the same width everywhere the corona discharge electrode can be manufactured continuously in any desired length and virtually without a waste of material. By cutting and bending operations the metal strip is formed to constitute a selfsupporting corona discharge electrode which has an adequate flexural stiffness and is provided with the required corona discharge tips.