The present invention is directed to a radiographic apparatus, and its
method of manufacture, that utilizes a single integral housing for
providing an evacuated envelope for an anode and cathode assembly. The
integral housing is formed from a substrate material, such as Kovar, that
has a radiation shielding layer, which is comprised of a powder metal that
is deposited with a plasma spray process. The powder metal includes, for
example, tungsten and iron, so that the radiation shield layer provides
sufficient radiation blocking and heat transfer characteristics such that
an additional external housing is not required. The integral housing is
air cooled, and thus does not utilize any liquid coolant. In addition, the
assembly utilizes a dielectric gel polymer material to electrically
insulate electrical connections on the housing.
