A compact, 1-MV, 6-kA radiography source with a onemeter extension and right-angle bend

Abstract

The Hybrid Radiation Source (HRS) is a compact pulsed power generator consisting of a commercial flash x-ray system that has been retrofitted with a custom front-end assembly, replacing a sealed glass tube1. A new high impedance (∼120 Ohm) space-charge-limited (SCL) diode was fielded on the HRS. This diode produces a ∼ 1.6 mm diameter x-ray spot suitable for high-resolution radiography2. This system has been modified by extending the diode from the generator with a one-meter-long vacuum transmission line. Also, the anode has been oriented to point perpendicular to the transmission-line axis. The extension and re-direction allow for the placement of the high-yield, small-spot-size, HRS radiographic source in previously unreachable locations. Parameters such as voltage, current, and source size have been measured and analyzed, allowing for optimization of the radiographic source. Discussion will also include circuit diagrams, simulation models, and diagnostic traces.