Abstract
HCA (Hollow Cathode Arc) is expected to be a welding heat source in outer space because HCA is sustainable in vacuum. HCA in vacuum makes huge penetration compared to GTA at atmospheric pressure. Oxide layer on aluminum alloy is removed by HCA. The oxide film is known as obstructor for normal bead formation. The shape of crater by HCA is conical. It is thought that the destruction of aluminum oxide layer and the formation of conical crater are largely-concerned with the evaporation of the base metal. The objective of this study is to develop a HCA welding simulation model. Present model can be applied to aluminum alloy. Evaporation from the metal surface is taken into consideration in the model.
