The x-ray generator components are housed in a steel enclosure.  The enclosure is lead-lined in the x-ray tube area, to reduce stray radiation to under 2mR/hr (federal standard).  The generator components are immersed in insulating oil, which provides high voltage insulation.  An internal oil circulating pump aids in dissipating the modest internal heat generated through the walls of the enclosure.  No water cooling of the
x-ray generator is required.

     The high voltage applied across the x-ray tube - hence the penetrating capability (kV) of the generator - is controlled by the "Generator Control" module, located in the electronics equipment cabinet.  The kV reference settings for this module are "picked" from the generator reference curve stored in the PLC.  The anode current of the x-ray tube is controlled by the "X-Ray Current Regulator" module, also contained in the electronics cabinet.  The anode current is maintained at a constant current (.3-.5mA depending on tube type and application) at all thickness settings.  This low current greatly limits the heat generated at the x-ray tube anode and also extends the life of the x-ray tube.

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