An X-Ray Flash Tube with Exchangeable Electrode System

Design and performance data of a field emission X-ray flash tube are presented. The electrode assembly is exchangeable. It is thus possible to adapt the tube impedance to the voltage source or to replace the anode tip when necessary. The tube has been tested in the voltage range 100-1 200 kV; the pulse width at 1 200 kV is typically 10 ns and the penetration 5 cm of steel at 1 m.