Electron-Beam Cutting Installations

In electron-beam cutting, the work material is vaporized as a result of a beam of accelerated electrons impinging on a point of contact. Within a few milliseconds, a channel is cut into the work material, The vapour pressure forces the molten metal in the immediate vicinity out of the channel. The depth diameter and form of the cut can be controlled through the characteristics of

the beam.

Apart from the actual work chamber, a high-voltage source (up to 150kV) is required, as are devices for the positioning of the electron beam and the work in relation to it. The process takes place in a vacuum in order to avoid the energy-absorbing collision of the electrons with air molecules. The beam may be deflected sideways and focused through the use of a system of magnetic lenses and deflection coils. The power density may be up to 10⁶ kW/cm² with a minimum beam diameter of 2 ㎛.