Cabinet x-ray systems

Detectors are used to convert X-ray flux into an electrical signal, which can then be digitized and stored. For imaging cabinet X-ray systems, the detectors usually consist of a folded linear array of scintillators optically coupled to photodiodes. Typically, 500-1000 such detector elements are present for single-energy imaging... 

Within the industry, cabinet x-ray systems are used to check the thickness ofmetal coatings and to identify defects (e.g., air bubbles in mold compoimd packages). While fypically not a significant source of leakage, these imits need to be checked on a periodic basis with a hand-held survey meter for x-ray leakage and to ensure door interlocks operate properly. The operator manual should be kept adjacent to the unit. 

While with-in the mobile x-ray system, the waste in the sampler, is contained within a replaceable (and disposable) polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sleeve with a wall thickness of approximately 0.2-inches and a sealed bottom. It was anticipated that the PVC tube or sleeve would, with use, become highly contaminated with waste residues which drip of fall-off the sampler. The sleeve is coated with a conductive coating to prevent static electricity buildup . There are no sources of ignition in this sealed spare. The sampler (and waste) is coupling which includes a positive pressure gasket. This barrier is further isolated by a second barrier consisting of an epoxy coated aluminum sleeve also sealed-off from the main x-ray cabinet and PVC sleeve. There are also no potential sources of ignition in this isolated secondary space as well. 

The cabinet system includes full radiation safety in the form of dual, forced breaking door interlocks so that there can be no risk of exposure outside the cabinet. Equally the system is equipped with emergency stops and red lights indicating when X-rays are on, in accordance with the international regulations. 

The changes described above also allowed much easier access to the high voltage cable for routine (6-month) owner directed, service operations, and provided better upper and lower x-ray cabinet and control cabinet ventilation. With the exception of the x-ray tubes, all the individual manufactured components, on all four systems are identical. There are very subtle differences in the warm-up/start-up sequence on the x-ray controllers on the newer systems due to model/year and x-ray tube differences. The last three systems were supplied with environmental type key-boards for the image processors and base-mounted , rather than conduit-mounted exterior warning indicators. The first system was subsequently upgraded to include the better keyboard and the external warning appliances/features. 

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