Soviet Medical Encyclopedia

Bauer Regenerator

Radiology & Physiotherapy

Also known as: Bauer's Regenerator

Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.

Summary

The Bauer regenerator is a device used in early X-ray technology to decrease the vacuum in gas (ionic) X-ray tubes by introducing gas from the external environment. It utilizes a clever mercury-sealed capillary system that allows controlled air admission remotely without approaching the tube.

Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)

BAUER REGENERATOR, used to reduce the vacuum of a gas (ionic) X-ray tube, with the supply of gas into the tube from the external environment. Bauer utilized the property of certain substances to let air pass through while blocking mercury.

In a special glass branch of the tube, a curved capillary glass tube containing mercury is placed; a special branch containing a substance that permits the passage of air but not mercury is connected to the latter tube.

Bauer Regenerator: figure 1 from the 1928–1936 encyclopedia article

By means of a pressure pump, the mercury is forced into the free part of the tube; then the air passes through the branch into the X-ray tube. In a state of rest, the mercury returns to its place and blocks the path to the air.

BAKH

Bauer Regenerator: figure 2 from the 1928–1936 encyclopedia article

The Bauer regenerator is convenient because it makes it possible to change the vacuum from a distance, without approaching the tube.

Cite this page

“Bauer Regenerator.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.com/article/bauer-regenerator/