Shielding structures for linear accelerators

摘要

An accelerator guide comprising an electron source 202 at a first end 204, a target 206 at a second end 208, and a plurality of accelerating cavities 210 coupled in series along a longitudinal axis 212 between the first end 204 and the second end 208; and a shielding structure 304, 306, 308, 310 enclosing the accelerator guide. This forms a linear accelerating cavity. The shielding structure 304, 306, 308, 310 may have an inner wall surface conformal to the contour of the accelerator guide as viewed in the longitudinal axis 212. The contour may be circular, oval or obround. The shielding structure may be a mono-block and a guide slide 220 may be used to provide a slidably engaged surface to the inner wall. The shield 304, 306, 308, 310 may be a radiation or magnetic shield. Removal of the accelerator guide from the shield structure 304, 306, 308, 310 may be achieved by orientating the longitudinal axis 212 horizontally.