An Analysis of E-Beam Potential in Aerospace Composite Manufacturing

摘要

The use of e-beams in the processing of composite structures has been receiving considerable attention in recent years. As with any new technology, a great many advantages have been proposed for e-beam processing, most of them directed towards the lowering of composite structures production costs. Several recent programs have been evaluating these potential advantages. This paper is intended to review some of the findings, contrast e-beam curing potential in the area with that of competing process methods, and to evaluate the potential of e-beam curing to realize its promise. In addition, the authors present their viewpoints on basic work that is required to move this promising technology into aerospace structural applications.