Exploration of novel structure for high-power X-ray converter

The conversion of electron beams into X-rays with high penetration capability is an important technique in radiation processing . Previous designs of high-power X-ray converters sacrificed conversion efficiency to achieve high heat dissipation. In this study, a novel high-power converter structure was developed to improve the conversion efficiency of X-rays and reduce energy deposition in the converter. The structure involves vacuum welding of a tantalum plate onto a tooth-shaped copper plate with uniform thickness and forming multiple trapezoidal grooves between the tantalum and copper layers to serve as cooling channels. Geant4 simulation was employed to evaluate the power conversion when the converter was subjected to electron beam bombardment . The optimized converter reduced the loss of X-rays passing through it. Finite element analysis was performed to assess the temperature and deformation of the converter and determine the cooling parameters required to meet operational requirements . Based on the converter structure developed in this study, three potential tantalum–copper connection processes were analyzed, revealing superior performances with vacuum brazing. The novel X-ray converter has now been manufactured and assembled. • Novel X-ray converter with tantalum plate welded to tooth-shaped copper structure. • Geant4 results show higher X-ray conversion efficiency in the novel design. • Thermal-mechanical analysis by Ansys Workbench reveals cooling parameters. • Three Ta-Cu connection techniques evaluated for the novel design.