What is the recommended HVL for x-ray tubes operating above 70 kVp?

The recommended half-value layer (HVL) for x-ray tubes operating above 70 kVp is critical for ensuring the adequacy of radiation shielding and the quality of the x-ray beam. The HVL is a measure of the thickness of a specified material that reduces the intensity of the radiation by half and is essential for compliance with health and safety regulations.

For x-ray tubes operating above 70 kVp, the established standard is a minimum HVL of 2.5 mm of aluminum (Al) to effectively filter out low-energy, non-diagnostic radiation. However, many regulatory bodies and guidelines recommend higher HVL values to enhance patient safety and improve image quality.

While the choice indicating 4.1 mm Al is substantially above the minimum requirement, this higher value incorporates additional safety margins, taking into consideration potential variations in x-ray tube performance, patient size, and other factors that could affect the adequacy of radiation protection. Therefore, using an HVL of 4.1 mm Al would ensure that the x-ray tube provides sufficient beam quality and reduces unnecessary radiation exposure, aligning well with modern practices emphasizing patient safety.

In conclusion, the recommendation of 4.1 mm Al represents a best practice standard for x-ray tubes operating above 70