What is the minimum total filtration required for machines operating over 70 kVp?

The minimum total filtration required for x-ray machines operating above 70 kVp is 2.5 mm of aluminum. This guideline is established to ensure adequate filtration of low-energy x-rays that do not contribute to image formation but increase patient dose.

By incorporating a minimum filtration of 2.5 mm of aluminum, the setup effectively reduces the patient's exposure to unnecessary radiation while still allowing the desired diagnostic x-rays to pass through. Filtration helps in improving the quality of the x-ray beam by removing softer x-rays, which can scatter and add to the background radiation dose without providing useful imaging information.

This standard is essential for patient safety and is regulated to ensure that radiographic practices minimize risk while maintaining the necessary image quality for diagnostics. Consequently, 2.5 mm is the established benchmark for devices operating in the specified kVp range to effectively balance radiation protection with diagnostic efficacy.