Abstract: An x-ray tube casing coating prevents lead contamination of oil. The aluminum casing housing an x-ray tube has a lead lining with a top surface and a bottom surface, and is exposed to a dielectric cooling oil. An electroplating material is applied to both the top and bottom surfaces of the lead lining, forming an electroplated layer between the lead lining and the casing to prevent lead contamination of the dielectric cooling oil.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an adherent and durable coating for a lead-lined x-ray tube casing which is exposed to dielectric cooling oil. Electroplating lead radiation shield material with a corrosion resistant and nontoxic material having excellent solderability, softness and ductility, provides a clean corrosion resistant surface which is inert to the oil, independent of temperature and x-ray irradiation. The electroplating material preserves the lead surface from flaking and corroding to the oil. The electroplating material is preferably selected from the group consisting of tin, silver, copper and nickel, or various combinations of those or other materials capable of providing an adherent and durable coating for the x-ray tube casing.