X-ray apron weight

There are numerous models that attempt to reduce weight through different designs. Overlapping X-ray aprons (vests and coats) are generally heavier than models that use only a single lead layer. In our opinion, the Pro-PK and Princess Vest models are very well suited to reducing weight.

In general, pure lead is the heaviest protective material. When lead-free components (e.g., antimony) are added, the weight of the X-ray apron decreases. X-ray aprons made of lead-free material generally offer the lowest weight.

A custom-made X-ray apron significantly reduces the weight of X-ray protective clothing, as only the amount of protective material needed for optimal protection is used. This results in a significant weight reduction . Every centimeter of length adds 50–60 grams. This can quickly result in X-ray protective clothing weighing 1–2 kilograms more than it needs to be. This additional strain can lead to permanent orthopedic problems .

In principle, the lead equivalent should be selected according to the working environment. In hospital settings, we recommend users a lead equivalent of at least 0.35 mm in the front and 0.25 mm in the back. In some cases, it makes sense to work with a lead equivalent of 0.50 mm in the front. However, it must be considered whether the additional radiation protection outweighs the additional orthopedic stress. The additional reduction in scattered radiation when using a lead equivalent of 0.50 mm compared to 0.35 mm is on average 5–7 percent, whereas the weight increases by more than 40%.

Our field staff will visit your facility and measure you and your team. We will then tailor your X-ray apron to your individual fit to ensure optimal comfort.

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The X-ray protective clothing market has seen a lot of change in recent years. It doesn't always have to be the classic coat or suit.

There are now models that feature an integrated support system ( Pro-PK ). This support system works similarly to a hiking backpack. You simply have to guide two straps across your back and over your waist to the front.

This type of X-ray apron feels much more comfortable to wear.

At MD Solutions, we want to give you the freedom to choose your protective material. Our goal is to advise you during your selection process. This allows you to weigh up which material best suits you and your needs and make an informed decision.

We've created a brief overview of the various lead equivalent values ​​of our protective materials. The table shows how each protective material reduces radiation compared to lead foil. We've also included the grammage of the various protective materials so you can estimate their weight.

Our X-ray protective clothing is tested in accordance with DIN EN 61331-1:2016. The method used is called BBG* (modified broad beam geometry) and also detects the secondary radiation generated in the test object. This is currently the highest measurement standard for detecting secondary radiation and offers you the highest level of safety.

Originally, there were two methods for testing X-ray protective clothing. However, problems arose in determining the protective effectiveness of lead-free and lead-reduced radiation protection aprons. This led to an incorrect, supposedly better assessment of the protective effectiveness of lead-free and lead-reduced X-ray protective clothing, as the secondary radiation generated in the test object (X-ray apron) was not sufficiently taken into account. Therefore, the inverse broad-beam geometry method, which also detects secondary radiation, was introduced in 2009.

The currently valid standard specifies three methods for testing the protective effectiveness of X-ray aprons: the narrow beam, the wide beam, and the inverse wide beam geometry. The narrow beam method does not detect secondary radiation. (Until a few years ago, this led to misjudgments in the evaluation of protective effectiveness, especially with lead-free and lead-reduced aprons.)

In 2016, a slightly modified version of the inverse broad beam geometry (IBG*) was published. This was replaced by the modified broad beam geometry (BBG*) in 2018.

About the illustration: The diagram shows the test setup for measuring the shielding properties of various materials according to the German Federal Association for the Protection of Human Body (BBG)*. For this purpose, apertures are used to collimate the X-rays. The X-rays then strike the test object or the X-ray apron, where they are scattered and detected by the measuring chamber located directly behind it. This measurement setup/measurement arrangement also adequately detects scattered radiation.