Electron Beam Machining

Synonyms

Electron beam cutting; Electron beam drilling; Electron beam processing; Electron beam removing; Electron beam welding

Definition

Electron beam machining (EBM) is a thermal machining process in which high-velocity electrons concentrated into a narrow beam are used for instantly heating, melting, or vaporizing the material. This process is used in many applications, including drilling, cutting, annealing, and welding.

Theory and Application

Introduction

When high-speed electrons in a densely focused beam impact with the workpiece surface, most of the kinetic energy of the electrons is converted into heat energy. This phenomenon has been well understood since the development of electron microscopy when attempts to use the electron beam as a machining tool were made. The first EBM equipment was built in the 1950s. The beam is easily focused and deflected by electromagnetic focusing lenses and deflection lenses. The power density is also easy to control by modifying the...