High Power Non-Vacuum Electron Beam Welding: Equipment Development And Preliminary Process Evaluation

TWI Industrial Member Report Summary 141/1981

By K R Nightingale, A Sanderson and J D Russell

Background

The development of a high power (60kW) non-vacuum electron beam (NVEB) welder is described. The effects of process parameters (welding speed, beam power and working distance) and joint preparation on weld penetration depth are examined.

The properties (hardness and weld metal toughness) of welds in 15, 25 and 38mm thick C-Mn steel are studied and the results explained with reference to the weld metal microstructures.