TECHNOLOGY FOR MACHINING OF Bi4Ge3O12 SCINTILLATOR CRYSTALS APPLICABLE IN-HOUSE
In this work are given two methods for machining Bi4Ge3O12 (BGO) crystals: milling machine-aided grinding for grinding grooves, and manually guided grinding for grinding grooves, slots and holes. Empirically derived speeds and feeds for milling machine-aided grinding are provided. Guidelines for building the necessary jigs for both manually guided machining and processing using a milling machine, are provided. With these methods, tolerance classes “v” and “c” according to ISO 2768-1 are easily obtainable for the positions and the sizes of the machined grooves, slots and holes. With special care, tolerance class “m” is also achievable. Class “f” is considered possible using finer tools and lower feed-to-speed. The techniques are easily applicable in laboratory conditions with a small workshop, where a column type drilling machine optionally equipped with a cross table or a milling machine is available.
BGO, crystal, machining, Bismuth Germanate Oxide, scintillator.