Siemens Novation X-Ray Tube: Lifespan, Signs of Failure, Replacement

If you use a Siemens Mammomat Novation, there's a P40 MOW-100G tube inside it producing your X-rays and, like any X-ray tube, that P40 will require replacement periodically over the course of your system's life. If you've been in the field even a few years, this is a fact you're probably already be aware of.

As you continue to serve patients with your Novation, it'll be helpful for you to know how long you can expect your X-ray tube to last and what cost you can expect when the time comes to replace it. To that end, we'll share the details below based on the experiences of our engineering team and service customers, as well as current parts market pricing.

Siemens Novation Tube Details

Life Expectancy

On average, the X-ray tube on a Siemens Novation mammo (part #1125314) lasts between 5 and 7 years, depending on the amount of use the tube sees. It's always possible that a tube could fail earlier or stay in service longer but, as a starting place for your expectations, know that 5-7 is what we've been seeing and hearing about.

One signal that your tube is approaching the end of its life is electrical arcing, which can be heard as a popping sound while you are taking exposures. Another signal is degradation in the rotors of the P40's anode. This is heard as a grinding sound during exposures. 

Replacement Cost

The current average prices to replace a Siemens Novation tube are as follows. Please note that prices on used tubes vary based on the date of manufacture of the individual tube in question.

New: $41,000

Used: $9,500 - $20,000

Availability

While spending on replacement parts isn't what most of us would prefer to do with our budgets, sometimes the expense is necessary. Fortunately less expensive used options can be found with relative ease.

If popping or grinding sounds are coming from your Siemens Novation, or if your tube has already failed, contact us ASAP to get a used replacement on its way to your facility!