elektronisädehitsaus

Elektronisädehitsaus, also known as electron beam welding (EBW), is a fusion welding process that uses a focused beam of high-velocity electrons as the heat source. This beam is typically generated in a vacuum chamber to prevent scattering of electrons by air molecules. The kinetic energy of the electrons is converted into thermal energy upon impact with the workpiece, melting the base metals and allowing them to fuse as they cool.

The high power density of the electron beam allows for deep and narrow welds with a high aspect ratio, meaning the weld depth is significantly greater than its width. This characteristic leads to minimal heat-affected zones (HAZ), reducing distortion and preserving the material properties of the surrounding area. EBW is capable of joining a wide range of metals, including those that are difficult to weld by other methods, such as titanium, aluminum alloys, and refractory metals. It is also effective for welding dissimilar metals.

The process can be automated and offers precise control over the welding parameters, leading to high-quality welds with excellent mechanical properties. Common applications for electron beam welding include the aerospace industry, automotive manufacturing, medical device production, and nuclear engineering, where high integrity and precision are critical. The initial cost of electron beam welding equipment can be substantial, and the requirement for a vacuum environment can limit the size of the parts that can be welded.