Some Issues of Repairing Manned Space Vehicles in Outer Space Using Electron Beam Welding

Abstract

A new generation of electron beam tool for welding during assembly and repair-restoration works on board of manned space vehicles in open space was demonstrated. The tool includes a small-sized electron beam gun (EBG) with an electron beam power of up to 2.5 kW and a high-voltage power source with a voltage of 10 kV. The design of the electron-optical system of EBG allows using it in both manual as well as in automatic mode applying robotic devices. Applying the manufactured EBG and manipulator, in vacuum chamber the works on simulating the repair of a spacecraft’s section of aluminum 2219 alloy were carried out. The obtained results of studying the structure and mechanical characteristics and also sealing of welds confirmed the high quality of welded joints and a reliability of the technology for repairing a damaged fragment of a spacecraft's body using electron beam welding.