Rotating-Anode Bearing Forging for X-Ray Tube Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Generic rotating-anode bearings in X-ray tubes face reduced service life due to high loads from rotational speeds, which is exacerbated by material instability caused by machining processes that interrupt grain flow.
Innovation Solution
The rotating-anode bearing is manufactured as an integrally forged part with a flange of larger diameter, using high-temperature resistant tool steel, and optionally austenitized and hardened to maintain structural integrity and strength, while minimizing material usage and avoiding grain flow interruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the rotor shaft is manufactured by conventional machining processes, then the structural stability of the material is compromised due to grain flow interruption, but the manufacturing process is simpler and more conventional
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the manufacturing method from conventional machining to forging, fundamentally altering the production parameter to preserve grain flow continuity. This parameter change enables the rotor shaft to maintain structural stability while still being manufacturable through established forging processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The grain flow is optimized during the forging process itself, before final machining operations. By pre-shaping the rotor shaft through forging with controlled grain flow patterns, the subsequent machining requires minimal material removal, thus preserving structural stability while maintaining ease of manufacture.
2Productivity
If high rotational speeds are used in the X-ray tube, then the productivity and performance are improved, but the service life of the rotating-anode bearing is reduced due to high loads
Solution Approach 1:
The rotor shaft is pre-strengthened through the forging process which creates continuous grain flow and optimizes material structure before operation. This preliminary strengthening allows the shaft to withstand high rotational speeds and loads during operation, thereby extending service life while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The forging process creates locally optimized grain flow patterns in critical areas of the rotor shaft, such as the bearing journals and transition zones. This local quality enhancement provides targeted strength where high loads occur during high-speed rotation, enabling both high productivity and extended service life.
3Loss of substance
If material volume is reduced to save weight and material cost, then the manufacturing cost decreases, but the structural integrity and strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material distribution parameter through optimized forging, creating a rotor shaft with continuous grain flow that maximizes strength-to-weight ratio. This parameter optimization allows reduced material volume while maintaining structural integrity, as the forged grain structure provides superior strength efficiency compared to conventional machining.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the long-term strength and toughness of the rotor shaft, leading to a longer service life and improved material efficiency, with the forging process preserving and even increasing material strength beyond conventional machining methods.
Implementation Method 1
the rotor shaft together with the flange is made as an integrally forged part
Implementation Method 2
austenitisation of the rotor shaft, whereby the material strengthening achieved during forging is largely or even completely reversed
Implementation Method 3
the rotor shaft is made by forging high-alloy stainless steel
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a rotating-anode bearing for an X-ray tubecomprising a rotor shaft extending along a longitudinal axis from a first axial end to a second axial end and supported to be rotatable about the longitudinal axis; whereinthe rotor shaft has an anode holder in the area of the first axial end; andthe anode holder comprises a flange which has a larger diameter than at least an adjacent section of the rotor shaft.The rotating-anode bearing according to the disclosure wherein the rotor shaft together with the flange is made as an integrally forged part.