MODERN THERMAL ELECTRON BEAM PROCESSES – RESEARCH RESULTS AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

Abstract

Thermal electron beam (EB) technologies are becoming more and more attractive especially
because they are ecologically friendly and energy saving on the one hand and highly precise, excellently
controllable and highly productive on the other hand.
Using three-dimensional energy transfer fields, the interaction conditions between the EB and the surface
of the material, the conditions of the heat conduction in the material, the geometry of the part, and the load
conditions of the component can be taken into account. High flexibility, precision, and reproducibility are
typical characteristics of EB technologies and facilities. High productivity is achieved by new technological
solutions like simultaneous interaction of the EB in several processing areas (spots) or by carrying out several
processes simultaneously in modern EB facilities and systems (such as multi-chamber, lock-type and other
concepts). The influence of beam parameters and energy transfer conditions on the microstructure of the
materials and its properties will be discussed for different EB technologies. Information on ideal treatment
conditions will be given. The paper deals with the current development state regarding beam deflection
techniques, technological processes and some facility concepts, and with the state of industrial application.