Sound and vibration damping fiber reinforced supporting tube for magnetic resonance equipment comprises a fiber reinforced thermoset tube with elastomer film layer to isolate vibration transmission

摘要

The tube(9) is molded in fiber reinforced thermosetting plastic(23) in which an elastomer film(11) is incorporated for damping of noise and sound transmission. Film(11) thickness is 0.5-2mm. Film softening point of the elastomer film is higher than the curing temperature of the thermosetting resin(23), preferably not less than100[deg]C, more preferably 135-145[deg]C. Mechanical damping is optimized by the film in the temperature and frequency range in which it is used. At least two reinforcing fiber layers(21A,21B) are included in the resin and one or more elastomer films located between them. Cut-outs(25) in the film form a flow path for the resin. The film may be arranged as bands around the tubular lining with space between them to form flow paths. The tube(9) forms a supporting tube for a hollow cylindrical magnetic resonance unit. Sound from a source of the MR equipment(1) outside the tube, e.g. a gradient coil unit(3), and mechanical vibration, is damped before reaching a patient area inside the tube. The supporting tube has a high frequency antennae unit for sending and receiving high frequency magnetic fields and/or a guide rail(13) for guiding a patient support(7) of the MR equipment. An independent claim is included for a process for manufacturing the tube in which: a) one or more layers of reinforcing fiber material(21A,21B) are laid onto a first tool part(31); b) an elastomer film(11) is laid onto the first fiber layer; c) fibers are impregnated with a resin and hardener mixture; d) the resin system is cured.