Reliability

Wed, 11/04/2009 - 16:58 — admin
X-ray vs. Gamma Comparison
How They Work
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Reliability
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Cost of Ownership
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Regulatory
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Environmental
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Safety
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Decommissioning

Reliability    

                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

What is the useful life of X-ray generators and Gamma sources?

X-ray generators have an average useful life of five to ten years, depending on utilization. The constant application of a high-voltage electric charge to accelerate electrons in the X-ray tube causes wear that usually results in failure of the X-ray generator within five to ten years of continuous operation. Gamma sources rely on the radiation caused by the natural disintegration of an Americium radioisotope. Currently, filtec 100mCi sources are rated for 40 years of continuous use.

 
How do X-ray and Gamma machines compare in terms of reliability?

 

X-ray generators must be replaced every five to ten years. In most states, a licensed professional must install the X-ray generator. The licensed professional who installs the new X-ray generator certifies that it is operating within regulatory and safety guidelines. Gamma sources rely on naturally generated radiation; thus there are no failure parts. filtec 100mCi Gamma sources are rated for 40 years of continuous use. The only requirement is that the source must be wipe tested once every three years by a specifically licensed technician.