Faults in X-Ray Tube Housing

Escape of oil from the housing

Results in reduced insulation levels and cooling rates due to expansion of air and oil increasing internal pressure which can damage the housing

Cause of oil escape

Expansion of air and oil present inside the housing leading to internal pressure

Remedy for oil escape

Replacing the oil, ensuring proper ventilation, regular maintenance, use of metal bellows, monitor air levels, maintain proper temp at 18°C

Radiation Leakage

Increases dose to patients and personnel, should not exceed 100 mR/hr at 1 meter or 1 mGya/hr at 1 meter

Cause of radiation leakage

Cracking of the tube housing or improper shielding

Remedy for radiation leakage

Proper protective shielding or replacing the tube

Cathode Filament Failure

Caused by excessive/prolonged heating, metal degradation, and evaporation due to thermal arcing

Thoriated Filament

98% tungsten and 2% thorium, has high melting point and atomic number

Symptoms of cathode filament failure

Loss of X-ray production, inconsistent imaging, visible damage, increased noise

Remedy for cathode filament failure

Routine maintenance, clean tube housing, replace damaged filament

Tube Arcing

Caused by tungsten vaporization depositing on glass, forming deep grooves on anode

vaporization

the process of turning solid tungsten into vapor due to high temperatures, which can lead to arcing in X-ray tubes.

Glass Crazing

Bronze or sunburn color due to tungsten deposit inside glass enclosure

Remedy for tube arcing

Check filament, inspect anode/cathode, maintain vacuum, clean housing, replace with metal enclosure if needed

Anode Target Failure

Caused by extreme heat, inability to dissipate 99% heat energy, melted tungsten, imbalance, bearing damage

Consequences of anode failure

Vacuum integrity loss, increased rotor vibration, anode stem cracks

Remedy for anode failure

Regular maintenance, clean housing, ensure cooling system works, train operators, follow exposure protocols, replace anode if damaged

Pitting/Bubbling

Common in stationary anode due to heat damage