Parts of an X-Ray Machine

           An x-ray machine is a complex device used in a variety of circumstances around
the world. With the ability to penetrate hard objects, they are used in the medical
community to look for broken bones or problems within the body. Regardless of which
type of x-ray , there are a number of components that are vital to the inner workings
of an x-ray machine.
Vacuum Tube
              X-ray tubes are more commonly referred to as vacuum tubes. They are integral
parts of the x-ray machine, and work by ionizing radiation with wavelengths shorter
than ultraviolet light. A cathode within the machine emits electrons into the vacuum
tube, at which point an anode collects the electrodes and establishes an electrical
current through the tube. A high voltage is used to accelerate the electrons, and the
current flow is pulsed until the required amount of x-ray exposure has occurred. The
beams of energy from the tube are focused onto a visible substance, which is where you
view the final result.
Power Source
    A high voltage power source is required to operate an x-ray machine, usually
between 30 and 150 kilovolts depending on the type of x-ray being taken. The voltage is
used to accelerate the electrons within the vacuum tube, and is usually pulsed from 1
microsecond to 1 full second. The high voltage power source of an x-ray machine
controls the penetration of the x-ray itself, and thus the overall contrast of the
image, with the voltage of the current and exposure time affecting the dose and
darkness of the image.
Control Unit
          The control unit of the x-ray machine is necessary to manage the voltage, 
current, and time of exposure. Radiation intensity can change dramatically depending on
whether you are using the machine to render x-ray stills of body parts or using it as a
security monitor, for example. There is also a voltage control with a display, allowing
you to make adjustments in the anode itself to change the type of radiation energy
being released. The control unit also has a timer to control the pulses and duration of
the exposure.