X-ray Computed Tomography Devices and Their Components

This chapter focuses on the hardware of current and emerging X-ray computed tomography (CT) systems. First, the basic configuration of industrial cone-beam X-ray CT systems is recalled. Subsequently, individual hardware components, such as sources, detectors and kinematic systems, are described. The chapter continues with an overview of novel developments that expand the application domain of X-ray CT towards, for example, larger objects or fully integrated in-line systems. The chapter is concluded by a description of key safety elements for operation of X-ray CT systems.