Okonite Launches Lownoise Xray Cables for Medical Scientific Use

In critical medical diagnostics or advanced scientific research, even minor electrical noise can disrupt data acquisition, leading to misdiagnoses or experimental failures. Addressing this challenge, Okonite has introduced a new series of low-noise X-ray/high-voltage cables designed to deliver exceptional performance and reliability in medical, industrial, and research applications.

Okonite's X-ray cables are engineered for medical, industrial, research, and control applications requiring stable performance under pulsed high-voltage conditions. While primarily used in medical imaging equipment, these cables also serve industrial applications and scientific projects demanding high voltage at low power.

The company's low-noise X-ray cables feature specialized construction for sensitive measurement scenarios. Rigorous quality control during manufacturing ensures discharge levels below 10 picocoulombs, minimizing interference. Available options include DC voltage ratings of 65kV, 75kV, 100kV, 230kV, and 250kV.

These cables typically power X-ray tubes by providing both anode and cathode voltages. Since one terminal operates at negative potential and the other at positive potential, the total voltage across the X-ray tube doubles the cable's rated voltage. Okonite offers two standard configurations:

• Three-conductor (3/C) cables for standard cathode installations
• Four-conductor (4/C) cables for grid-controlled lead applications

The company can customize designs for specialized requirements.

• Low noise: Maintains noise below 10 pC @ 200 Vac/mil at insulation voltages up to 42 kV
• Reliable performance: Extensive testing ensures long-term operational stability
• Compact diameter: Space-efficient design simplifies installation
• Flexible construction: Excellent bend radius accommodates complex routing
• Superior flex endurance: Withstands repeated bending and movement
• High mechanical strength: Durable construction for harsh operating conditions
• Easy termination: Simplified stripping and connection processes
• Chemical resistance: Stable performance in oil and chemical environments
• NEMA XR-7 compliance: Meets relevant industry standards where applicable

Okonite recommends maintaining a minimum bending radius of four times the cable diameter during permanent installation or use to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Each low-noise cable conductor contains two insulated filament wires:

• 65kV, 75kV, and 100kV cables: #15 AWG (19x) [1.65mm²] tinned copper with heat-sealed colored polyester tape insulation
• 230kV cables: #16 AWG (19x) [1.31mm²] tinned copper with ETFE extruded insulation
• 250kV cables: #14 AWG (19x) [2.08mm²] tinned copper with ETFE extruded insulation

Four-conductor cables include an additional #20 AWG (7x) [0.52mm²] copper-clad steel conductor (ASTM B-45 compliant) with heat-sealed polyester insulation and metallized red polyester shielding.

• Conductor shielding: Extruded semi-conductive compound encapsulates the composite conductor assembly
• High-voltage insulation: Premium EPR (ethylene propylene rubber) material with ozone-resistant properties
• Insulation shielding: Strippable semi-conductive EPR layer directly over the insulation
• Overall shielding: Tinned copper braid applied directly over the insulation shield
• Jacket: Flexible Okoseal (special PVC formulation) provides mechanical protection and resistance to oils/chemicals