Liquid metal bearing for an x-ray tube and x-ray tube

Abstract

The application discloses a liquid metal bearing for an X-ray tube and the X-ray tube, relates to the technical field of X-ray tubes, and solves the technical problems of short service life and poor heat dissipation effect of the bearing. The liquid metal supporting bearing comprises a bearing sleeve, a mandrel, liquid metal and a microporous structure; the bearing sleeve is sleeved outside the mandrel, and a gap is arranged between the bearing sleeve and the mandrel; the liquid metal is filled in the gap; the microporous structure is arranged on the inner surfaces opposite to each other of the bearing sleeve and the mandrel and / or the outer surfaces opposite to each other of the mandrel and the bearing sleeve, the microporous structure is formed by a plurality of micropores arranged in an array, and the microporous structure has a protruding direction consistent with the flowing direction of the liquid metal. The liquid metal distribution is optimized through the micropores and optional microslit structures between the bearing sleeve and the mandrel, the friction coefficient is reduced, the heat dissipation performance is enhanced, and the service life and the heat dissipation effect of the bearing can be remarkably improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of X-ray tube technology, specifically a liquid metal bearing for X-ray tubes and an X-ray tube. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of X-ray imaging technology, especially the widespread application of CT equipment in medical diagnosis, the performance of the X-ray tube, as a core component, directly affects imaging quality and equipment reliability. Liquid metal bearings, due to their excellent thermal conductivity, low friction loss, and high load-bearing capacity, have gradually become an important technological approach for high-end X-ray tube rotating anode support systems. In an X-ray tube, the liquid metal bearing rotating system consists of an asynchronous motor formed by a stator coil and a rotor. The rotor is connected to a bushing, and the bushing rotates under the influence of the alternating magnetic field generated by the stator coil. A liquid metal bearing is a hydrodynamic sliding bearing, mainly composed of a rotating bushing, a fixed spindle, and liquid metal filling the gap between them. Compared to traditional ball bearings, liquid metal bearings achieve stable support under high-speed rotation by filling a low-melting-point liquid metal (such as gallium-based alloys) to form a hydrodynamic lubrication film. However, in actual operation, the rotation of the bushing causes the liquid metal to flow and generate hydrodynamic pressure to support the rotating bushing. However, with prolonged operation, especially during frequent starts, stops, and braking, wear, abrasion, and particulate matter shedding can easily occur between the spindle and bushing, leading to a deterioration in the bearing's load-bearing capacity and potentially causing it to seize and end its lifespan. Therefore, improving the service life of liquid metal bearings has become a critical issue that urgently needs to be addressed.

[0003] In existing technologies, some solutions propose arranging openings in the bearing components to access the bearing clearance, thereby improving the distribution of liquid metal and lubrication. However, these openings typically have large apertures and do not fully consider the actual effect of the specific arrangement of the openings on reducing friction, thus limiting their optimization effect on the friction coefficient. Furthermore, existing technologies often neglect the importance of heat dissipation performance in extending bearing life, resulting in limited reliability and lifespan of liquid metal bearings under long-term high-load operation. Therefore, developing a liquid metal bearing structure that can effectively reduce friction, improve heat dissipation performance, and significantly extend service life has significant technological value and application prospects. Utility Model Content

[0004] This invention addresses the technical deficiency of existing liquid metal bearings, which suffer from limited lifespan due to friction and heat dissipation issues under long-term high-load operation. Therefore, this invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] A liquid metal bearing includes a bearing sleeve, a mandrel, liquid metal, and a microporous structure; the bearing sleeve is fitted onto the outside of the mandrel, and a gap is provided between the two; the liquid metal fills the gap;

[0006] Furthermore, the arrangement shape of the microporous structures includes any one or more of the following: oblique zigzag, semi-circular, or double zigzag. Multiple microporous structures are arranged in a parallel array.

[0007] Furthermore, the pore diameter of the micropore is 0.001 mm to 0.15 mm, and the depth is 0.005 mm to 0.15 mm.

[0008] Furthermore, it also includes a microslit structure, which is disposed on the surface of the bearing sleeve and / or the mandrel and is incorporated in a parallel array of multiple microporous structures, with its protruding direction consistent with the flow direction of the liquid metal.

[0009] Furthermore, the width of the microslit structure is 0.001 mm to 0.15 mm, the length is 0.5 mm to 200 mm, and the depth is 0.005 mm to 0.15 mm.

[0010] Furthermore, the mandrel includes an axially arranged protrusion, and the bearing sleeve includes a groove that mates with the protrusion. The protrusion and the groove mate to form a multi-layered liquid metal flow channel.

[0011] Furthermore, the surfaces of the protrusion and the groove are provided with the microporous structure and / or microslit structure.

[0012] Furthermore, it also includes a sleeve fitted onto the bottom of the bearing sleeve, the sleeve having a sealing groove inside, and a sealing element provided in the sealing groove.

[0013] This invention also proposes an X-ray tube, including the liquid metal bearing as described above.

[0014] This utility model can achieve at least one of the following beneficial effects:

[0015] (1) By processing a regular and orderly microporous structure in the area where the outer surface of the mandrel and the inner surface of the bearing sleeve rub against each other, the friction area of ​​the contact area between the two can be reduced. Furthermore, a small amount of liquid metal can be stored in the micropores, thereby playing a lubricating role and reducing the coefficient of friction. At the same time, the microporous structure is composed of multiple micropores arranged in a regular pattern and can form a parallel array. The setting of the microporous structure increases the lateral area of ​​the micropores in the contact area between the liquid metal and the bearing sleeve and the mandrel. Therefore, when there are many micropores, the contact area can be effectively increased compared with large openings, thereby increasing the damping effect and improving the heat dissipation effect when the bearing is working. Moreover, since the lattice has a protruding direction that is consistent with the flow direction of the liquid metal, it is not only conducive to the replenishment of liquid metal to ensure the integrity of the sliding film, but also conducive to the flow of liquid metal, thereby also playing a role in improving the heat dissipation effect, thereby improving the stability of the bearing, increasing the number of bearing start-stop cycles, and extending the service life.

[0016] (2) By setting the protrusion on the mandrel and the groove on the bearing sleeve, the gap between the mandrel and the bearing sleeve has a parallel multi-layered structure, which increases the flow path of the liquid metal and thus increases the heat dissipation effect of the liquid metal. At the same time, microporous structures are also set on the surface of the protrusion and the groove, which further reduces friction, increases heat dissipation and damping effect, and extends the bearing life.

[0017] (3) By setting up a micro-slit structure and combining it with a micro-pore structure, the flow direction of liquid metal can be guided, and the distribution of liquid metal in the gap between the mandrel and the bearing sleeve and between different micro-pores can be optimized, thereby improving the damping effect and heat dissipation performance.

[0018] In this invention, the above-described technical solutions can be combined with each other to achieve more preferred combinations. Other features and advantages of this invention will be set forth in the following description, and some advantages will become apparent from the description or be learned by practicing this invention. The objectives and other advantages of this invention can be realized and obtained from the details specifically pointed out in the text and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same parts.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the bearing structure according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the first arrangement of the microporous structure in this utility model;

[0022] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the second arrangement of the microporous structure in this utility model;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the third arrangement of the microporous structure in this utility model;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the first arrangement of the micropore and microslit structure in Embodiment 2 of this utility model;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the second arrangement of the micropore and microslit structure in Embodiment 2 of this utility model;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the bearing structure according to Embodiment 3 of this utility model.

[0027] In the picture:

[0028] 1. Target plate; 2. Bearing sleeve; 3. Mandrel; 4. Liquid metal; 5. Microporous structure; 6. Sealing groove; 7. Micro-slit structure. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which constitute a part of the present invention and are used together with the embodiments of the present invention to illustrate the principles of the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0030] Example 1:

[0031] This invention provides a liquid metal bearing for X-ray tubes, and its specific implementation is described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, the liquid metal bearing includes a target disk 1, a bearing sleeve 2, a spindle 3, liquid metal 4, and a microporous structure 5.

[0033] The target disk 1, flat in shape, is a key component in the X-ray tube that receives electron bombardment to generate X-rays. It is fixed to one end of the bearing sleeve 2 by mechanical connection or welding to ensure stability during high-speed rotation. The target disk 1 and the bearing sleeve 2 are connected by high-strength bolts or laser welding to achieve the transmission of force and motion. This connection method ensures the dynamic balance of the target disk 1 at high speeds and reduces additional wear caused by vibration.

[0034] The bearing sleeve 2 is fitted onto the outside of the mandrel 3, with a gap between the bearing sleeve 2 and the mandrel 3 to accommodate the liquid metal 4 and to fulfill the bearing function. The inner surface of the bearing sleeve 2, on the side opposite to the mandrel 3, has regularly arranged microporous structures 5. These microporous structures provide the necessary space for the flow of the liquid metal 4 and the fulfillment of the bearing function. The bearing sleeve 2 is made of a metal alloy with high thermal conductivity and wear resistance, such as a copper-based alloy or a nickel-based alloy, to enhance its load-bearing capacity and heat dissipation performance.

[0035] The mandrel 3 is a central shaft component that provides support and positioning. It works in conjunction with the bearing sleeve 2 to form the boundary of the channel for the flow of liquid metal. The outer surface of the mandrel 3 also features a regularly arranged microporous structure 5. The mandrel 3 is made of high-hardness stainless steel or titanium alloy to improve its wear resistance and long-term stability. The surface of the mandrel 3 undergoes precision machining to ensure that the gap between it and the bearing sleeve 2 is precisely controlled within the range of 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm, thereby optimizing the distribution and flow characteristics of the liquid metal 4.

[0036] Liquid metal 4 fills the gap between the bearing sleeve 2 and the spindle 3, as well as the cavity formed by the microporous structure 5. Utilizing its excellent fluidity, thermal conductivity, and lubricity, it provides support, lubrication, and heat dissipation for the bearing, reducing the coefficient of friction between the bearing sleeve 2 and the spindle 3, thereby increasing the number of bearing start-stop cycles and extending its service life. The liquid metal 4 is selected from a low-melting-point gallium-based alloy and undergoes purification treatment before filling to remove impurities, ensuring that it maintains stable physicochemical properties under high temperature and high load conditions.

[0037] like Figures 2-4 As shown, after unfolding the contact surface between the mandrel 3 and the bearing sleeve 2, the arrangement diagram of the microporous structure 5 can be obtained. Specifically, the microporous structure 5 is composed of multiple micropores arranged in a regular pattern, including but not limited to... Figure 2 The arrangement shown is a diagonal broken line, or as... Figure 3 The arrangement shown is in semi-circular or as... Figure 4 The double-zigzag arrangement shown above, with all the above patterns having a protruding direction that is consistent and aligned with the flow direction of the liquid metal 4, indicates that multiple microporous structures 5 can be arranged in a parallel array.

[0038] By machining a regular and orderly microporous structure 5 in the area where the outer surface of the mandrel 3 and the inner surface of the bearing sleeve 2 rub against each other, the friction area of ​​the contact area can be reduced. Furthermore, a small amount of liquid metal can be stored in the micropores, thus providing lubrication and reducing the coefficient of friction. Simultaneously, the arrangement of the micropores is a parallel array composed of dot matrix groups. This arrangement increases the lateral area of ​​the micropores, increasing the contact area between the liquid metal and the bearing sleeve and mandrel. Therefore, when the number of micropores is large, compared to large openings, it can effectively increase the contact area, thereby increasing damping and improving heat dissipation during bearing operation. Moreover, since the dot matrix has a protruding direction consistent with the flow direction of the liquid metal 4, which is defined as the mainstream direction of the liquid metal when the bearing sleeve rotates, it not only facilitates the replenishment of liquid metal to ensure the integrity of the sliding film but also promotes the flow of liquid metal, further improving heat dissipation. This enhances bearing stability, increases the number of bearing start-stop cycles, and extends service life.

[0039] Specifically, the diameter of the micropores in the microporous structure 5 ranges from 0.001 mm to 0.15 mm, and the depth ranges from 0.005 mm to 0.15 mm. The microporous structure 5 can be manufactured by laser processing or electrochemical etching processes to ensure that its shape is regular and its arrangement is orderly.

[0040] Example 2:

[0041] Based on Example 1, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, this utility model also includes a micro-slit structure 7, which is arranged in the same position as the micro-hole structure 5, and is also located in the region of the outer surface of the mandrel 3 and the inner surface of the bearing sleeve 2. It is combined in a parallel array of multiple micro-hole structures 5, and also has a protruding direction, which is consistent with the flow direction of the liquid metal 4. The micro-slit structure 7 is used to guide the flow of the liquid metal 4, thereby optimizing the distribution of the liquid metal 4 in the gap and between different micro-holes, thereby improving the damping effect and heat dissipation performance.

[0042] Furthermore, the microslit structure 7 has a width ranging from 0.001 mm to 0.15 mm, a length ranging from 0.5 mm to 200 mm, and a depth ranging from 0.005 mm to 0.15 mm. The microslit structure 7 can be manufactured by machining or laser cutting.

[0043] Example 3:

[0044] like Figure 7As shown, based on Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, the mandrel 3 further includes an axially arranged protrusion, which is arranged on a circumferentially arranged boss of the mandrel 3. Correspondingly, the bearing sleeve 2 also includes a groove that is connected to the protrusion. By setting the protrusion and the groove, the gap between the mandrel 3 and the bearing sleeve 2 has a parallel multi-layered structure, which increases the flow path of the liquid metal 4 and thus increases the heat dissipation effect of the liquid metal 4.

[0045] Meanwhile, microporous structures 5 and / or microslit structures 7 are also provided on the surfaces of the protrusions and grooves, which further reduce friction, increase heat dissipation and damping effects, and extend the life of the bearing.

[0046] Furthermore, a sleeve is provided, which is located at the bottom of the bearing sleeve 2 and forms part of the bearing. A sealing groove 6 is provided inside the sleeve, and a sealing element is provided in the sealing groove 6 to prevent liquid metal 4 from leaking from the bearing.

[0047] Example 4:

[0048] Furthermore, an X-ray tube is proposed, including the liquid metal bearing described in Examples 1 to 3. The technical solution of this invention is applicable to various types of X-ray tubes, including but not limited to CT equipment for medical diagnosis, industrial non-destructive testing equipment, and high-energy X-ray sources for scientific research. Through the technical improvements of this invention, the liquid metal bearing can maintain stable operation under a wider range of working conditions, thereby meeting the stringent performance requirements of high-end applications.

[0049] In summary, this invention significantly improves the service life, stability, and heat dissipation performance of the bearing by optimizing the distribution of liquid metal and the bearing structure design, thus providing a reliable guarantee for the high-performance operation of the X-ray tube.

[0050] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model, but the protection scope of the present utility model is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A liquid metal bearing, characterized in that, It includes a bearing sleeve, a mandrel, liquid metal, and a microporous structure; the bearing sleeve is fitted onto the outside of the mandrel, and a gap is provided between the two; the liquid metal fills the gap; The microporous structure is disposed on the inner surface of the bearing sleeve opposite to the mandrel and / or the outer surface of the mandrel opposite to the bearing sleeve. The microporous structure is composed of a plurality of micropores arranged in a protruding direction consistent with the flow direction of the liquid metal.

2. The liquid metal bearing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The arrangement shape of the microporous structure includes any one or more of the following: oblique zigzag, semi-circular, or double zigzag.

3. The liquid metal bearing according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple microporous structures are arranged in a parallel array.

4. The liquid metal bearing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pores have a diameter of 0.001 mm to 0.15 mm and a depth of 0.005 mm to 0.15 mm.

5. The liquid metal bearing according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes microslit structures, which are disposed on the surface of the bearing sleeve and / or the mandrel and are combined in a parallel array of multiple microporous structures, with their protruding direction consistent with the flow direction of the liquid metal.

6. The liquid metal bearing according to claim 5, characterized in that, The microslit structure has a width of 0.001 mm to 0.15 mm, a length of 0.5 mm to 200 mm, and a depth of 0.005 mm to 0.15 mm.

7. The liquid metal bearing according to claim 5, characterized in that, The mandrel includes an axially arranged protrusion, and the bearing sleeve includes a groove that mates with the protrusion. The protrusion and the groove mate to form a multi-layered liquid metal flow channel.

8. The liquid metal bearing according to claim 7, characterized in that, The surface of the protrusion or the groove is provided with the microporous structure and / or microslit structure.

9. The liquid metal bearing according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, It also includes a sleeve fitted onto the bottom of the bearing sleeve, the sleeve having a sealing groove inside, and a sealing element provided in the sealing groove.

10. An X-ray tube, characterized in that, Including the liquid metal bearing as described in any one of claims 1-9.

Images