The temperature distribution field for single pulse electric discharge machining (EDM) of different materials such as polycrystalline diamond (PCD), steel 45# and carbide YG15 were simulated by using ANSYS software. The EDM machining mechanism of PCD using increased explosive power supply was analyzed by comparing with the experimental results. The influence of thermal conductivity on discharge explosion force was studied. The radius of discharge channel for EDM process of PCD was estimated and improved. The results show that the main effect of the explosion force generated during the EDM process of PCD is to enhance the throw progress of melting materials, however, PCD material is not removed by the explosion force. In addition, the thermal conductivity of the materials has a certain effect on the explosion force and the material removal rate. ©, 2015, Editorial Board of Journal of Basic Science and Engineering. All right reserved.