This standard is intended for use when the run-out accuracy of the moving parts of electron beam welding machines complying with EN ISO 14744-1 is to be measured in connection with an acceptance inspection. It provides information on the procedure and apparatus to be used for making the measurements. Given the great variety of electron beam welding machines, the scope of measurements required for acceptance inspection purposes should be specified separately for the machine concerned.

Run-out accuracy as defined here is a systematic error and thus counts as one of the parameters by which the performance of a machine tool can be characterized. Other factors influencing performance (e.g. dynamic forces, vacuum level, positioning accuracy of CNC machines) and methods of statistical evaluation are not covered in this standard.

Electron beam welding involves movement of the workpiece and/or of the electron gun. Successful welding presupposes that this movement is effected by the devices concerned (e.g. work table and rotating fixture) with a given degree of accuracy. The purpose of the measurement is thus to check whether and to what extent the required run-out accuracy is maintained.