by
Gus Iversen, Editor in Chief | August 22, 2022
From the August 2022 issue of HealthCare Business News magazine
Also, like a car, scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) on the imaging system will prolong the life of the X-ray tube. “Do PMs more often,” advises Fitzgerald, because although it means more time invested on the front end, it returns to you on the back end through better performance.
So, what does preventive maintenance actually consist of? Olsen recommends the following four things be covered in PMs every three months:
Recalibrate IF data value – Updating the X-ray tube IF data keeps the X-ray tube and detector calibrated and keeps the tube output and the detector synchronized over time.
Heat exchanger checks – Visually check and clean the heat exchanger. The filter should be removed and cleaned with a vacuum and should be replaced if clogged.
Check the high voltage cable retaining cap and gap – Check the retaining cap and the tightening screws for looseness. The gap between the cap and the tube should be between 2mm and 4mm.
Leakage checks – Confirm that there is no coolant leakage from the X-ray tube, heat exchanger, or rubber hoses. If coolant leakage from the rubber hose is detected or a crack is found in the hose, replace it immediately.
“None of these items should come as a surprise, but the reality is that CT tubes will have a longer life if these simple things are done,” said Olsen. “We train and assist customers with these proactive maintenance steps daily.”
Teach an in-house team to fish…
One of the best ways to save money on tube maintenance is to train in-house servicers to do most of the work, reducing your dependence on the service provider. Richardson offers customized, hands-on training classes year-round in South Carolina for various models of Canon CT systems.
This year, Richardson released its ALTA 750G X-ray tube for sale, a replacement for the Canon CXB-750G X-ray tube that is used in the Canon Prime II, and Prime SP CT systems.
“We have a great training facility with over a dozen CT test bays where every student will get one-on-one, hands-on training from a veteran engineer,” says Olsen. “Our comprehensive program gives students an overview of the Aquilion CT series and provides training in system operation, installation, preventative maintenance, calibration, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting, and repair. Graduates will be able to meet and exceed all service requirements for the Aquilion CT platforms.”
For servicers using Dunlee tubes, the company has a cooperation with AllParts Medical where engineers from around the world receive theoretical and hands-on training at its specialized training facility in Nashville, Tennessee to arm them with the necessary skills to make improvements and repairs efficiently.
