Tungsten alloy X-ray tubes used for diagnostic imaging
typically consist of four main components: the anode, the cathode, the frame
structure and the housing. The main function of the anode is to provide a track
material for the electron beam, which is generally a tungsten-rhenium alloy. In
general, the process of X-radiation production is only 1 % efficient at
generating characteristic X-ray radiation, the rest is converted to heat. Heat
management is paramount; particularly since higher power levels are desired due
to the increase in X-ray efficiency with power, and faster imaging. Due to the
large energy adsorption, it is necessary to rotate the anode to constantly
bring cooler material under the electron beam.
Several different materials have been
described as being useful as tungsten alloy x-ray tube anodes to give radiation protection.
