The focal spot of a tube is a function of the geometry of the target, target material, texture
of the target material, size of the filament and the focus cup (cathode), plus any wobble
that might occur in the anode as it rotates. Figure 91-7 illustrates how these factors
typically interact. Focal spots are stated in mm, typically 0.3, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mm.
Measurement of focal spots is made using a pinhole camera or a star pattern. With a pinhole
camera, the image is measured and divided by the amplification factor. The star pattern
requires calculations that are more mathematical and it is sometimes difficult to
establish where the line blur occurs. These measurements are made at the factory and by
a physicist during validation testing. The focal spot size, as built, is listed on the tube
housing and serves as a reference point during future validations.
As the tube ages, the focal spot will increase in size. Some of the growth in size can be
compensated for by changing “techniques,” i.e., voltage, current, and time settings, by the
technologists. The smaller the focal spot, the better the resolution of the image. While that
is the “official” line of thinking, the consistency of the X-ray generated also affects the
resolution. This is evident when edges of objects are not sharp but blended. The use of filters
and grids can increase sharpness, also called “clear image” or “central area,” and can
decrease the blurred/blended area, also called “edge gradient” or “penumbra.” The testing
of a new tube at installation should include documenting not only the size and shape of
the focal spot, but also any tilt, blurred edges, or uneven radiation. A hard copy of this
information should be kept on file as long as the tube is in service.
The focal spot geometry produces an uneven beam of X-ray called the “heel effect.”
This means that there is more energy at one end of the field than at the other. Ideally,
aligning the tube so that the radiation caused by the heel effect is directed toward the
thickest part of the object being studied helps to maintain the density (i.e., how dark the
film is) and contrast (i.e., darkness relative to surroundings) of the film. If complaints
about density and contrast arise suddenly, one should check to see that the tube has not
been rotated.
Most of the preceding material in this chapter has concerned areas into which BMETs
cannot, or should not, venture, or it was simply background information. The remaining