What material are low voltage x-ray tube windows typically made of?

Low voltage x-ray tube windows are typically made of beryllium due to its advantageous properties for x-ray production and transmission. Beryllium has a very low atomic number, which means it allows for higher energy x-rays to pass through with minimal absorption. This is essential for ensuring that the x-ray photons produced can effectively penetrate the material being inspected and yield clear images.

Beryllium's lightweight nature also contributes to the overall efficiency of the x-ray tube, reducing the amount of energy needed for operation. Additionally, beryllium is highly durable and resistant to damage from the radiation generated within the tube, making it a suitable choice for the demanding environment of radiographic testing.

In contrast, materials like aluminum, while used in certain applications, do not provide the same level of transparency to x-rays as beryllium and may absorb too many of the rays, leading to less effective radiographic results. Lead and copper, while beneficial for different types of radiation shielding and electrical conduction, are not appropriate choices for x-ray tube windows due to their higher atomic numbers, which impede x-ray transmission.