Errors in the determination of total filtration of diagnostic X-ray tubes by the HVL method

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Abstract
There are many sources of error in the traditional method involving measurement of the half-value layer (HVL) and use of appropriate conversion data to determine the total filtration of X-ray tube assemblies. Optimal technique and an analysis of errors are essential for interpreting whether the total filtration of a diagnostic X-ray tube is acceptable. This study approaches these problems from a theoretical viewpoint utilising recent theoretical HVL-total-filtration data relating to 10' and 16' tungsten target angles and 0-30% kilovoltage ripples. The theory indicates the typical accuracy to which each of the appropriate parameters must be determined to maintain acceptable errors in total filtration. A quantitative approach is taken to evaluate systematic errors in a technique for interpolation of HVL from raw attenuation curve data.