Compliance test of field area conformity and beam straightness on x-ray machines in radiological installation

Abstract

Compliance testing of diagnostic X-ray equipment is an essential part of quality control to ensure image accuracy and patient safety. This study evaluated the conformity of collimator illumination, collimation accuracy, and X-ray beam alignment in a hospital radiology unit. Measurements were carried out using a collimator and beam alignment test tool at a source-to-image distance (SID) of 100 cm. Illumination was measured five times in four quadrants. Collimation deviation was determined by comparing the X-ray and light field edges along the X and Y axes, expressed as % SID. Beam straightness was evaluated using the steel ball superposition method, and the deviation angle was calculated based on geometric displacement. Illumination values exceeded 100 lux in all quadrants. Collimation deviation was 1.5 ± 0.05 % SID, within the permissible tolerance of ≤ 2% SID as specified by BAPETEN Regulation No. 2 of 2022. Beam straightness deviation was 1.20 ± 0.05°, within the permissible limit of ≤ 3°. The tested X-ray unit met national compliance standards for illumination, collimation, and beam alignment. These findings highlight the importance of periodic quality control testing to maintain patient safety, minimize unnecessary radiation exposure, and ensure high-quality diagnostic images