Multi-Leaf Collimator (MLC)

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Multi-Leaf Collimator (MLC)

Definition

The Multi-Leaf Collimator (MLC) is a critical component of the Integrated Radiotherapy Treatment Planning and Delivery System. It consists of multiple thin tungsten leaves that can be individually positioned to create custom apertures. During treatment, the MLC dynamically shapes the radiation beam to precisely conform to the three-dimensional shape of the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. The leaves are moved by computer-controlled motors based on treatment planning data, blocking portions of the beam to create a shaped aperture that matches the tumor's projection from the beam's eye view. The leaves can move during delivery to adapt to tumor motion or create intensity-modulated fields. Typical configurations include 40 to 120 leaf pairs, with leaf widths at isocenter ranging from 2.5 to 10 mm. The maximum field size is 40×40 cm, and leaf travel range extends ±10 to 20 cm beyond the field edge. Leaf positioning accuracy is ±0.1 to 0.5 mm, and leaf speed ranges from 2 to 5 cm/s. Leaf transmission is 0.5% to 2%, and interleaf leakage is 0.5% to 1.5%. The MLC operates on 24–48 V DC, consumes 50–200 W, and functions within an operating temperature of 10–40 °C and relative humidity of 20%–80% (non-condensing). It has an ingress protection rating of IP54–IP65 per IEC 60529, and weighs 50–150 kg. Materials include tungsten, steel alloys, and copper. These values are directory reference ranges; verify model-specific specifications with the legal manufacturer.

Working Principle

The MLC uses computer-controlled motors to individually position thin tungsten leaves. Based on treatment planning data, each leaf is moved to a specific position to block portions of the radiation beam, creating a shaped aperture that matches the tumor's projection. During treatment, leaves can move dynamically to adapt to tumor motion or to create intensity-modulated fields. The leaves are arranged in pairs, and their precise positioning determines the field shaping resolution. The system's accuracy and speed are critical for delivering the intended dose distribution while sparing healthy tissue.

Common Materials

Tungsten, Steel alloys, Copper

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Number of Leaf Pairs	40–120 pairs	Determines field shaping resolution.
Leaf Width at Isocenter	2.5–10 mm	Smaller width improves conformality.
Maximum Field Size	40×40 cm	Largest square field at isocenter.
Leaf Travel Range	±10–20 cm	Overshoot beyond field edge.
Leaf Positioning Accuracy	±0.1–0.5 mm	Affects dose delivery accuracy.
Leaf Speed	2–5 cm/s	For IMRT/VMAT efficiency.
Leaf Transmission	0.5–2 %	Lower is better for leakage.
Interleaf Leakage	0.5–1.5 %	Max radiation through leaf gaps.
Operating Voltage	24–48 V DC	Stepper motor drive.
Power Consumption	50–200 W	Includes motors and control.
Operating Temperature	10–40 °C	Stable performance within range.
Relative Humidity	20–80 %	Non-condensing.
Ingress Protection	IP54–IP65	Dust and water resistance.IEC 60529
Weight	50–150 kg	Affects gantry mounting.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Tungsten leaves Part
Primary radiation blocking elements that shape the beam

Material: Tungsten alloy
Leaf drive mechanism
Motorized system that positions individual leaves

Material: Steel, copper
Position sensors
Monitor and verify leaf positions during treatment

Material: Electronic components
Control electronics
Process treatment planning data and control leaf movements

Material: Circuit boards, semiconductors

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Collimator System

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Multi-Leaf Collimator (MLC)

Manufacturer profiles associated with Multi-Leaf Collimator (MLC).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a Multi-Leaf Collimator?

The primary function is to shape the radiation beam in radiotherapy to conform to the tumor's shape, thereby sparing surrounding healthy tissues.

What materials are commonly used in MLC construction?

Common materials include tungsten for the leaves, steel alloys for structural components, and copper for electrical or thermal management.

How does leaf width affect treatment?

Smaller leaf width improves conformality, allowing finer shaping of the beam to the tumor boundary, but may increase complexity and cost.

What should be verified before selecting an MLC?

Verify model-specific parameters such as number of leaf pairs, leaf width, positioning accuracy, transmission, and environmental ratings with the legal manufacturer.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Atmospheric (sealed system, no external pressure rating required)
other spec:	Radiation field size: 40x40 cm max, Leaf width: 5-10 mm, Leaf positioning accuracy: ±1 mm, Max leaf speed: 3 cm/s
temperature:	15°C to 35°C (operating), 0°C to 50°C (storage)

Product Specifications

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