Electron Beam Welding

Electron beam welding is a metal-joining process wherein melting is produced by the heat of a concentrated stream of high velocity electrons.  The kinetic energy of the electrons is changed into heat upon impact with the workpiece.  Filler material is not generally used in this process.

Process Characteristics

Requires a vacuum chamber
Uses no filler metal
Causes little workpiece distortion
Produces excellent penetration
Is easily automated
Permits joining of dissimilar alloys
Weld zone is narrow
Temperatures are very high, but heat-affected zone is very small

BACK

Information provided is from Manufacturing Processes Reference Guide by Robert H. Todd, Dell K. Allen, and Leo Alting.--1st ed. Published by Industrial Press Inc., 1994.