EBW Technology Applied on the ICRF Antenna Component

Central conductor is one of the key components of ion cyclotron ranges of heating antenna, which is usually formed by welding due to the complex structures. High level of welding seam quality and small deformation are very important to central conductor. Electron beam welding (EBW) is suggested as the central conductor welding. To meet EBW requirements and reduce the risk, complex and high level of the accuracy welding fixture have been designed for central conductor EBW. Some samples were manufactured to do test and examination for EBW qualification before central conductor welding. Based on the welding parameters, thermal analysis using finite element method for the welding seam have been carried out. One mockup of central conductor for EBW has been made for proving welding parameters. In addition, some postwelding process were employed after one central conductor EBW. Results of examination and inspection of one central conductor using EBW are presented in this paper.