ASTM E1165-20 PDF

Full title and description

ASTM E1165‑20 — Standard Test Method for Measurement of Focal Spots of Industrial X‑Ray Tubes by Pinhole Imaging. This test method describes procedures to produce and evaluate radiographic images of an X‑ray tube focal spot using a pinhole (pinhole camera) technique in order to determine effective focal‑spot dimensions for industrial X‑ray sources.

Abstract

This standard defines a pinhole‑imaging procedure for measuring the effective size and two‑dimensional intensity distribution of focal spots of industrial X‑ray tubes. It covers measurement ranges typically from about 100 µm up to several millimetres for X‑ray tube voltages up to 600 kV (with limited precision for spots down to ~50 µm), includes an alternative plaque‑hole IQI technique (Annex A), and gives guidance for using the measured focal‑spot size to control geometric unsharpness, magnification, and image quality in nondestructive radiographic applications. The standard also notes that users must observe applicable safety practices when performing focal‑spot measurements.

General information

• Status: Active
• Publication date: 1 December 2020
• Publisher: ASTM International
• ICS / categories: 19.100 (Non‑destructive testing)
• Edition / version: E1165‑20 (2020 edition)
• Number of pages: 17

Bibliographic and publication details as published for ASTM E1165‑20 (DOI: 10.1520/E1165‑20).

Scope

Provides instructions for determining the effective focal‑spot dimensions of standard and mini focal spots of industrial X‑ray tubes using a pinhole imaging technique. The procedure is applicable for focal‑spot dimensions from approximately 100 µm up to several millimetres on X‑ray sources up to about 600 kV; focal spots near 50 µm may be evaluated with reduced precision. The standard may be used to track focal‑spot changes caused by tube age or overloading and to supply focal‑spot size input for radiographic magnification/unsharpness calculations required by related radiography practices.

Key topics and requirements

• Measurement principle: pinhole (pinhole camera) imaging of the X‑ray focal spot and radiographic evaluation of the recorded image.
• Measurement range: typically ~100 µm to several mm; limited precision down to ~50 µm.
• Applicable tube voltages: documented up to 600 kV (with notes on limitations at higher voltages).
• Alternative methods: plaque‑hole IQI technique described in Annex A; for very small focal spots, Test Method E2903 (edge projection) is recommended.
• Units and reporting: SI units are the standard for reported measurements.
• Use of results: determine source‑to‑object and object‑to‑detector distances to control geometric unsharpness and magnification for radiographic testing.
• Safety note: the standard does not address all safety concerns; users must follow applicable radiation safety and regulatory requirements.

Typical use and users

Used by nondestructive testing (NDT) engineers, radiography laboratories, equipment manufacturers, quality and calibration laboratories, and technicians responsible for establishing or verifying X‑ray imaging geometry and image quality. Common applications include focal‑spot characterization for industrial radiography, acceptance testing of X‑ray tubes, periodic quality control, and input to procedures that require knowledge of focal‑spot size for magnification/unsharpness calculations.

Related standards

References and related ASTM documents commonly associated with E1165 include Test Method E2903 (projection of an edge for very small focal spots), Practices and Test Methods that use focal‑spot size for magnification or image quality calculations (for example E1255, E2033, E2698), and digital imaging practices such as E2339. Users should consult the normative and informative references in E1165 for full relationships and cross‑references.

Keywords

focal spot; pinhole camera; pinhole imaging; focal‑spot size; X‑ray tube; geometric unsharpness; nondestructive testing; radiographic image quality.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM E1165‑20 is a Standard Test Method that specifies how to measure the effective focal‑spot size of industrial X‑ray tubes using a pinhole imaging technique.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the pinhole imaging procedure, measurement ranges (roughly 100 µm to several mm, with limited precision to ~50 µm), applicable tube voltages up to ~600 kV, reporting in SI units, and an alternative plaque‑hole IQI method in Annex A. It also directs users to E2903 for very small focal spots and notes safety responsibilities.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: NDT/radiography engineers and technicians, calibration and test laboratories, X‑ray tube manufacturers, and quality assurance personnel who need an objective measurement of focal‑spot dimensions for imaging performance and procedural calculations.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: E1165‑20 is the 2020 (‑20) edition and is listed as the current/most recent ASTM version (replacing earlier editions); users should check ASTM publications for any amendments or corrigenda issued after 2020.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: E1165 is part of a family of ASTM radiography and imaging standards addressing detector practices, digital imaging, and radiographic procedures (for example E2903, E1255, E2033, E2698, E2339). The standard is intended to be used in conjunction with related practices that require focal‑spot size input.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: focal spot; pinhole imaging; X‑ray tube; focal‑spot measurement; nondestructive testing; geometric unsharpness; pinhole camera.