INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Molybdenum Focusing Cup

Molybdenum focusing cup is a precision component in X-ray tube cathodes that directs electron flow toward the anode target.

Component Specifications

Definition
A molybdenum focusing cup is a critical component within the cathode assembly of medical X-ray tubes, designed to electrostatically focus and direct the electron beam emitted from the filament toward a specific focal spot on the anode target. Its precise geometry and material properties ensure optimal electron flow control, which directly impacts X-ray beam quality, focal spot size, and imaging resolution in diagnostic radiology equipment.
Working Principle
The focusing cup operates on electrostatic principles: when a high negative voltage is applied relative to the anode, it creates an electric field that shapes and accelerates electrons from the heated filament. The cup's concave geometry and precise positioning concentrate electrons into a narrow beam, minimizing dispersion and ensuring they strike the anode target at the intended focal point to generate X-rays efficiently.
Materials
High-purity molybdenum (Mo), typically 99.95% or higher, often with trace alloying elements like lanthanum oxide (La2O3) for enhanced thermionic emission stability. Material must exhibit high melting point (~2623°C), low vapor pressure, and excellent thermal and electrical conductivity.
Technical Parameters
  • Material Molybdenum (Mo ≥99.95%)
  • Voltage Range -40 kV to -150 kV
  • Surface Finish Ra ≤0.8 μm
  • Geometric Tolerance ±0.05 mm
  • Electrical Resistance <0.1 Ω·cm
  • Operating Temperature Up to 2000°C
  • Focal Spot Size Control 0.1 mm to 2.0 mm
Standards
ISO 16526-3, DIN 6827-1, IEC 60601-2-54

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Molybdenum Focusing Cup.

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Thermal deformation at high temperatures
  • Electron beam misalignment due to manufacturing defects
  • Material degradation from repeated thermal cycling
  • Electrical arcing if insulation fails
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Material impurities or improper heat treatment
Failure: Premature thermal cracking or warping
Mitigation: Use high-purity molybdenum with controlled grain structure and implement strict thermal cycling tests during quality control.
Trigger: Geometric inaccuracies in cup machining
Failure: Electron beam defocusing leading to enlarged focal spot
Mitigation: Employ precision CNC machining with post-process metrology verification to ensure dimensional tolerances within ±0.05 mm.

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Dimensional tolerance ±0.05 mm, surface roughness Ra ≤0.8 μm, electrical isolation >100 MΩ at 500 VDC
Test Method
X-ray focal spot measurement per ISO 16526-3, high-voltage leakage test per IEC 60601-2-54, thermal cycling test (1000 cycles, 20-2000°C)

Buyer Feedback

★★★★☆ 4.7 / 5.0 (36 reviews)

"Testing the Molybdenum Focusing Cup now; the technical reliability results are within 1% of the laboratory datasheet."

"Impressive build quality. Especially the technical reliability is very stable during long-term operation."

"As a professional in the Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing sector, I confirm this Molybdenum Focusing Cup meets all ISO standards."

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is molybdenum used for focusing cups in X-ray tubes?

Molybdenum is preferred due to its high melting point, excellent thermal stability, low vapor pressure (reducing tube contamination), and good electrical conductivity, making it ideal for high-temperature, high-voltage environments in X-ray generation.

How does the focusing cup affect X-ray image quality?

It precisely controls electron beam focus on the anode, determining focal spot size and shape. A well-focused beam produces sharper images with higher resolution, while poor focus can cause blurring and reduced diagnostic accuracy.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

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