New electron beam gun for welding in space

ABSTRACTA new design of electron beam gun for welding in open space has been developed. The gun design is based on the application of triode emission system with improved quality of electron beam formation. This provides increased specific power of the beam and, as a result, the high capability to increase the penetration depth of welded joints. To reduce the dimensions of the gun and increase its service reliability, the high-voltage insulation has been provided applying metal-ceramic heat-resistant welded-brazed vacuum-tight components. The original technologies for their manufacture have been developed. The performed tests of the new gun design have proved the possibility of its application under open space conditions.