Essay --

Introduction: X-ray tubes are a critical aspect of all x-ray imaging systems and the central site of x-ray production. They are a part of the imaging system that radiologic technologists do not interact with, as it is located in protective housing and out of reach. Despite the tube’s location, it is a radiographer’s responsibility to understand its construction and operation. While not all x-ray tubes are the same, there are critical parts that all tubes must contain in order to create x-rays, such as the cathode an anode. Both the cathode and anode are considered electrodes, or conductors through which electricity enters or exits an object. X-ray tubes contain two electrodes and can be further classified as diodes. Diodes are semiconductor devices with two terminals that allow for the flow of current in only one direction. In the x-ray tube this flow is directed from cathode to anode. The purpose of this paper is to describe the different parts that make up an x-ray tube, both internally & externally, and briefly describe the role that each part of the tube plays in the in the process of x-ray production. Literature Review: X-ray tube structure can be divided into the external components, and internal components. The external components consist of the protective housing, an envelope and insulating oil. The internal components include the negatively charged cathode, and positively charged anode. External components: The components necessary for the production of x-ray are housed in a glass or metal envelope. The envelope’s primary purpose is to provide a vacuum for the x-ray tube, allowing the improved flow of electrons from cathode to anode. The envelope also provides insulation from heat and electricity given off. Dielec... ...production, while the angle of the anode interacts with x-ray photons. An anode’s angle affects both the effective focal spot size as well as the intensity of the x-ray beam that exits the tube. X-ray tubes containing rotating anodes possess an assembly of induction-motor electromagnets known as the stator and rotor, mechanisms necessary to turn the target. The stator is the only section of the cathode that is located outside of the tube envelope. It is made up of electromagnets that surround the neck of the x-ray tube. The rotor is a positively charged hollow copper cylinder attached to the anode by a molybdenum shaft. It is located within the stator and inside of the tube envelope. The rotor rotates at high speeds due to the current that runs through each stator, which induces a magnetic field that surrounds the rotor and interacts with the ferromagnetic copper.