Elektronihitsaus

Elektronihitsaus, also known as electron beam welding (EBW), is a fusion welding process that uses a high-velocity beam of electrons as the heat source. The electrons are accelerated in a vacuum chamber to very high energies, and when they strike the workpiece, their kinetic energy is converted into heat, melting the material. This process allows for deep and narrow welds with minimal heat-affected zones, which is advantageous for welding materials that are difficult to join using conventional methods.

The electron beam is generated in an electron gun, which consists of a filament that emits electrons when heated, and a series of electrodes that accelerate and focus the electron beam. The welding is typically performed in a high vacuum environment to prevent the electrons from scattering and to avoid contamination of the weld. This vacuum requirement is a significant characteristic of the process and can limit the size and geometry of the parts that can be welded.

Elektronihitsaus is used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing, for applications requiring high-precision and high-strength welds. It is particularly suitable for joining dissimilar metals, heat-sensitive materials, and components with complex geometries. The process offers excellent control over the weld penetration and width, leading to high-quality welds with minimal distortion and excellent mechanical properties.