Excillum AB, Sweden, has developed the MetalJet x-ray tube, in which a conventional microfocus tube with a solid-metal anode, is replaced by a liquid-metal jet. This type of anode is continuously regenerated and already in the molten stage. Therefore, the classical power limit of an x-ray source, reached when the anode is permanently damaged by the electron beam, may be disregarded. Especially in the microfocus x-ray spot size range, from about 5 µm diameter to a few tens of µm, a source based on a liquid-metal-jet anode significantly outperform a classical solid anode x-ray source.
Excillum has now launched Dynamic Adaptation technology on its MetalJet range of x-ray sources. The technology enables MetalJet market-leading brightness for even longer operational periods. For industrial applications such as metrology, inspection, or nondestructive testing of automotive, aerospace, medical, and semiconductor components, the continuous and reliable operation of the test equipment is key.
Dynamic Adaptation technology continuously adapts the e-beam to the natural aging of the cathode. The development of the technology has been possible based on the experience and expertise that Excillum has gained in the area of advanced e-beam control. Dynamic Adaptation technology can enable more than one-year of 24/7 continuous operation (i.e. >8000 hours) before any cathode exchange is required.
This significant improvement will provide improved performance, reduced downtime, and lower operational cost. Dynamic Adaptation is from now on included in new MetalJet x-ray source shipments, and existing MetalJet sources can be upgraded to include the new technology.
