The application of electron beam welding for the joining of dissimilar metals: an overview

Electron beam welding (EBW) has been developed for many years and is being increasingly implemented in various industrial applications. Joining dissimilar metals using EBW has also been a subject of interest in recent years. Due to special features of EBW, e.g., high energy density and accurately controllable beam size and location, in many cases it has proven to be an efficient way of joining dissimilar metals. Numerous successful results have been achieved, and some of them have already been exploited in production. EBW continues to be the subject of investigations and further development, and improvements in the joining of dissimilar metals remains one of the aims. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art EBW of dissimilar metals, with special emphasis on showing the potential of the process for achieving high-quality dissimilar-metal joints. Since EBW is a fusion-welding process, metallurgical phenomena associated with fusion still exist and cause difficulties. However, these are often minor as compared to those in conventional are welding. Problems encountered and possible solutions are discussed. The survey indicates that although many studies have been performed, there is still a considerable need to further examine existing and new combinations. Therefore, future R&D trends are highlighted.