Services offered by the Electron Beam Technology Group

The Electron Beam Technology Group at TWI consists of a team of scientists and engineers with specialist skills covering a wide range of disciplines related to the generation and use of electron beams in research and industry. In addition to this expertise, 8 state of the art electron beam machines are available.

We offer full support and advice in:

• Non-destructive testing
• Procedure approval and mechanical testing
• Quality assurance and classification
• Welding metallurgy and selection of materials

Weld joint and component design

Cryostat in EB2

Advice and demonstration of designs for weld detail and component geometry when EB welding is being considered.

Feasibility studies and process development

• Facilities exist and studies can be performed for welding, cutting & surface treatment of metals
• Surface texturing and Surfi-Sculpt ^® of metals and non-metals.

Specialist sub-contract welding service

In demanding applications where complex procedures or difficult materials are involved clients can make use of TWI's facilities and expertise in performing welding production. The high power, large chamber, Reduced Pressure and non-vacuum facilities are globally unique.

Reclamation and repair

Repairs or modifications to high value parts can be made possible using the low heat input and minimal distortion characteristics of EB welding.

Slat-track actuator

Demagnetisation

Ferro-magnetic components may require demagnetising before welding. The EB process is particularly sensitive and thus the group can offer assistance in measurement of magnetic fields, advice and practical help in demagnetising, as well as computer modelling of magnetic problems and characterisation of magnetic properties.

Demagnetisation of railway bogie

On-Site trouble shooting

Electron Beam process and equipment problems are often best addressed by on site analysis. Immediate response and quick assessment are followed by practical advice.

Consultancy

As a consequence of the activities in the EB group, specialist staff and equipment are available for:-

• High Voltage power source design
• Vacuum engineering and leak testing
• Welding of metallic materials
• Control software development and implementation
• Characterisation of charged particle beams
• Electron gun design
• Prediction of welding distortion and residual stresses
• Heat flow prediction and measurement
• Training
• Development, design, manufacture and supply of prototype EB equipment

Contact: electronbeam@twi.co.uk