Signs Your CT System May Fail and Tips to Avoid Significant Downtime
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There are signs and symptoms that something may be about to fail, malfunction, or break down. For example, if your car is having trouble running efficiently, it may make strange noises. If you are catching a cold, you will likely have symptoms like a runny nose, cough, and fever. However, what about medical equipment like CT and PET scanners?
While these machines are more complex, they are designed to let operators know when there may be a problem. Knowing what to look for and the signs of an issue is the best way to avoid a complete breakdown and expensive downtime.
Ongoing Errors and Warnings
Have you started to see warning messages or more error codes with your system? If so, it may mean the machine is on the verge of a breakdown.
A field service engineer who comes to the office to inspect and maintain the machines will enter any issues they find and take note of the errors or warnings that are increasing. Using the log to see the types of messages and errors recorded will let you know what part is malfunctioning and may need replacement. This is a great way to know where and how to start your troubleshooting efforts.
Other warning signs of an issue are computer problems or related errors. If the database has started not to work properly or the IRS computer is bad, you will see fatal reconstruction errors appear. This is another sign it's time to troubleshoot and fix the issues.
Sounds of a Problem with the Tube
Sometimes, the X-ray tube in a CT scanner is the system's most expensive and most important part. The tubes may have to be replaced every few years based on how much the machine is used. Usually, there aren't any visual signs that your X-ray tube has begun to wear out; however, there may be some tell-tale signs that technologists and engineers need to be listening for.
One sound is when the anode begins to rotate, you may hear humming or scraping sounds. Also, if the scan is complete and you still hear that the anode is spinning, it's another sign that there is an issue with the housing of the X-ray tube.
When it is time to purchase replacement X-ray tubes, you must make sure you purchase from a quality service provider. This is going to ensure that the imaging system works properly.
Brushes and Sliprings
Another common failure with the CT system is the tube. The carbon brushes used for the slipring may also cause issues if they are not replaced in a timely manner. If the carbon brushes are worn out, it can negatively impact the image's quality, or the entire scan may be aborted because of other problems.
Getting the Needed Replacement Parts for Imaging Equipment
When it comes to your imaging equipment, paying attention to potential issues will help you find them and make needed repairs or replacements before they become too serious. Being informed is the best way to ensure that you get the desired results from your machines.