Microwave-assisted brazing of alumina ceramics for electron tube applications

Alumina was joined with alumina using microwave-assisted and conventional brazing methods at 960∘C for 15 min using TiCuSil (68.8Ag–26.7Cu–4.5Ti in wt.%) as the brazing alloy. The brazed joints were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, Vickers microhardness evaluation, brazing strength measurement and helium leak test. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation of Ti-based compounds at the substrate-filler alloy interfaces of the microwave and conventionally brazed joints. The elemental compositions at the joint cross-section were determined by energy dispersive X-ray analysis. Vickers microhardness measurement indicated reliable joint performance for the microwave-assisted brazed joints during actual application in an electron tube. Brazing strength measurement and helium leak test provided the evidence for good alumina-alumina joint formation.