Technical innovation in MR
K4 Technology
Superconducting MRI systems are preferred
for higher magnet field strength, homogeneity
and stability. However, conventional
MR scanners require a refill of cryogen
(liquid helium) two to four times a year. Replacing
liquid helium requires trained maintenance personnel
and can be a time consuming and costly procedure.
But, an MR scanner with K4 technology needs a refill of
helium only once in 7 years, thereby phenomenally
increasing the productivity of the system and decreasing
running costs.
Many methods have been proposed over the years
to eliminate the need for liquid helium replacement in
superconducting MRI magnets. GE Medical Systems
has developed a new cooling technology which will
revolutionise magnet performance and nearly
eliminate cryogen consumption.
This innovation provides the means to develop
lower temperature (4o Kelvin) cooling systems with
extremely low cryogen consumption. This consists of a
new cryocooler cold head and special helium vessel
design. The K4 technology is used in GE's new
generation Signa Contour MRI systems.
By using a high performance cryocooler to
maintain a 4 degree Kelvin temperature, any gaseous
helium is reliquified before it has a chance to escape,
thus achieving a virtually cryogen consumption-free
mode. K4 will have a great impact on reduction of
an MRI exam cost and make it accessible to a greater
number of patients worldwide.
GE continues to pioneer new magnet
technologies which improve system performance,
reliability and operating economics.
Cryo Cooling System
Signa Contour Supercon
0.5T MR Imaging System
A path-breaking innovation in MRI from
GE Medical Systems, the company with the
world's largest installed base of high-field and
low-field MRI systems, the Signa Contour
incorporates the revolutionary K-4 technology
which eliminates the need for liquid helium
replacement in superconducting MRI magnets.
Relatively inexpensive to site
Low cryogen and power consumption
Efficient patient data and image management
Lower daily operating costs and increased
productivity
Protected by the GE Continuum of upgrades
Advantage Windows-based operator interface
DICOM 3 compatibility allows networking of
exams throughout your diagnostic imaging
department
Advanced applications like Multi-Channel
Phased Array imaging, advanced vascular and
cardiac imaging
Maximum patient comfort
Please write to us for more information on the Signa Contour/K4 technology.
|
|
|
