Electron beam welding of refractory metals: improving niobium process window with fast beam deflection

Niobium (Nb) has properties that make it very attractive for high performance applications in space (e.g. rocket engines) and on earth (superconducting cavities used in particle accelerators), yet it also creates some particular challenges for the successful manufacturing of parts from it. The material is difficult to form into the complex shapes required for application. Welding also requires very high temperatures and very clean environments. These factors mean that electron beam welding, performed in high vacuum and capable of providing very high energy density, is the chosen process for welding Nb components. This proposal seeks to answer the question of whether electron beam welding can also be used to help reduce problems arising from the difficulty of forming. Using the very fast and flexible beam deflection capability in UBC’s LEAM electron beam processing facility, this work will look at beam motion strategies that can help to fill gaps created by imperfect shapes resulting from forming of Nb components. This would reduce scrap and allow for higher part success from very expensive Nb sheet.

Faculty Supervisor:

Chad Sinclair

Student:

Partner:

CANMORA Tech

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: