Summary

Excillum AB uses HPC for X-ray source optimisation, accelerating development and optimizing performance. Excillum have accessed MeluXina supercomputer using the EuroHPC JU Access Calls.

Organisations involved

Excillum is a global leader in the field of advanced microfocus and nanofocus X-ray sources. It produces cutting-edge high-end x-ray sources utilizing the patented metal jet anode technology. The fluid dynamics including velocity, pressure, turbulence distribution, liquid-vacuum interface are frequently challenged engineering parameters in our future development.

The development of high-performance x-ray tubes requires accurate modeling of x-ray generation and emission under varying operating conditions. Monte Carlo simulations coupled with the CFD simulations, provide a robust framework for studying the interactions of electrons and photons in x-ray tube geometry.

This project involves setting up detailed x-ray tube models, including electron sources and liquid anode, to simulate x-ray spectra and emission patterns.

Technical/scientific Challenge

The simulations aim to generate statistical insights into x-ray spectra across different energy intervals and to map the 3D origins of x-ray emission for various energy levels. Additionally, the project will assess heat deposition in the liquid anode in 3D, crucial for understanding thermal management.

Parametric sweeps of operating voltages, target geometries, and electron beam spot sizes will be conducted to optimize tube performance. The results will guide the design of high-brightness x-ray sources.

Proposed solution

We will carry out Monte Carlo simulations using PENELOPE coupled with the CFD software OpenFOAM v1812. We will conduct a series of parameter studies of key variables with high-resolution statistical output. The outcomes will directly contribute to optimizing x-ray tube designs for enhanced functionality and efficiency.

Business impact

Accessing a supercomputer will allow us to conduct several numerical experiments for parameter studies which saves both time and costs compared to conducting the same number of physical experiments in a lab. By this we have shorten the leading time between the concept & feasibility phase and the development phase in our product life cycle, which is a key to achieve agile development.

Benefits

• Parameter studies to avoid lab tests aiming at design optimization, which saves working hours and cost on test materials
• Numerical experiments to revel new knowledge related to improving the configuration of key components in our product
• Ability to run simulation of different kind, e.g., CFD, optical simulation, particle simulation, in a single platform, which increase efficiency

Do you need more computational power for your projects?

Learn more about how you can access supercomputers for your projects. ENCCS can help! Visit https://enccs.se/get-supercomputer-access/