Electron beam welding (EB Welding) is a fusion welding process that uses a beam of high velocity electrons to produce a weld. Automobile, aerospace, medical and other industrial parts, which require relatively low distortion, are amenable to electron beam welding technology. Assembly of conventional production parts, partial processing of parts such as gears, valves and bearings are other common applications.
- A concentrated beam of high energy electrons impinges upon the surfaces of the materials to be welded and produces an enormous amount of heat, which melts and joins the two materials;
- The electron beam generated under high vacuum conditions passes through a series of specially-designed orifices and chambers to offer welds with the maximum purity required, and greater depth-to-width ratios.
Application Advantages of Electron Beam Welding
As the EB welding process takes place in a vacuum, the welds are clean and free of oxides and nitrides. Narrow, deeper penetration from .001 to 2 inches, with high depth-to-width ratio eliminates multiple-pass welds completely.
Narrow/Deep | High depth-to-width ratio eliminates multiple-pass welds. Penetration from .001” to 2”. |
Low Heat | Minimizes shrinkage and distortion and allows welds in close proximity to heat sensitive components. |
Strength | Welds up to 95% of the strength of the base material. |
Versatility | Precise control and repeatability at speeds from 1 to 200 inches per minute. |
High Purity | Vacuum environment eliminates impurities such as oxides and nitrides. |
Unique | Permits welding of refractory and dissimilar metals not weldable with conventional welding process. |