The term “Rarex Blue III” refers to a line of intensifying screens used in traditional X-ray imaging. Manufactured by Wolf X-Ray Corporation, these screens are designed to enhance the efficiency of X-ray film by converting X-rays into visible light, thereby reducing the amount of radiation needed for imaging.

es of Rarex Blue III Intensifying Screens

• High-Speed Performance: These screens are rated at 800 speed, allowing for faster exposures and reduced patient radiation dose.

• Blue Emission: They emit blue light, which is compatible with blue-sensitive X-ray films.

• Durability: Constructed with rare earth phosphors, they offer improved image quality and longevity.

• Variety of Sizes: Available in multiple dimensions to fit different cassette formats, including:

  • 8″ x 10″

  • 10″ x 12″

  • 11″ x 14″

  • 14″ x 17″

  • 24 x 30 cm

  • 14″ x 36″

Product Availability

These screens are sold in pairs and are typically available through medical equipment suppliers. For example:

• 8″ x 10″ Pair: Priced at $189.93

• 10″ x 12″ Pair: Priced at $286.65

• 11″ x 14″ Pair: Priced at $380.19

• 14″ x 17″ Pair: Priced at $421.27

• 24 x 30 cm Pair: Priced at $260.33

• 14″ x 36″ Pair: Priced at $1,155.64

These prices are from MedEquip Depot, a known supplier of medical imaging equipment.

Considerations

• Compatibility: Ensure that the screen size matches your X-ray cassette dimensions for optimal performance.

• Film Type: These screens are designed for use with blue-sensitive X-ray films.

• Replacement Cycle: Regularly inspect screens for wear and replace them as needed to maintain image quality.wolfxray.comwolfxray.com+6Medequip Depot+6Medequip Depot+6

If you need assistance selecting the appropriate screen size for your equipment or have further questions about X-ray imaging accessories, feel free to ask.

What Is an Intensifying Screen?

An intensifying screen is a radiographic device used in analog (film-based) X-ray systems. It’s placed in direct contact with X-ray film inside a cassette and works by converting X-ray photons into visible light photons, which then expose the film.

Why Is This Important?

X-rays by themselves expose film relatively slowly. By using an intensifying screen, the film receives light exposure in addition to direct X-ray exposure, drastically reducing:

• Radiation dose to the patient

• Exposure time

• Wear on the X-ray tube

Rarex Blue III: Deep Dive into Features

🧪 Phosphor Material: Rare Earth Compounds

• Rarex Blue III uses rare earth phosphors (often involving gadolinium or lanthanum compounds).

• These materials are far more efficient at converting X-rays to visible light compared to older calcium tungstate screens.

• The phosphors in this model specifically emit blue light, hence the name.

Speed: 800-Speed Classification

• In radiographic terms, “speed” refers to how quickly the film-screen combo produces an image.

• 800 speed is considered high, meaning:

  • It requires less X-ray exposure

  • Produces images faster

  • May show slightly less fine detail than lower-speed systems (a trade-off)

Clinical Applications

Where Rarex Blue III Screens Are Used:

• General diagnostic radiography

• Orthopedics

• Thoracic imaging

• Veterinary X-ray systems

• Mobile X-ray units

This model is particularly well-suited to high-throughput environments where minimizing patient exposure and quick turnaround are priorities.

Available Sizes

Offered in both standard and specialty formats:

Advantages of Rarex Blue III

• Optimized for Blue-Sensitive Film: Must be paired with compatible X-ray film.

• ⚡ High-Speed Efficiency: Reduces radiation dose.

• Even Illumination: Produces uniform exposure across the film.

• Durability: Strong resistance to wear from cassette handling.

• Cost-Effective in the Long Term: Reduces need for repeat exposures.

Care & Maintenance

💡 Best Practices:

• Keep screens clean—dust or debris can cause artifacts in the image.

• Avoid bending or impact damage, especially around the edges.

• Use non-abrasive cleaners designed for phosphor surfaces.

• Regularly check for screen wear, discoloration, or delamination.

Lifespan & Replacement

• Under normal use, screens can last 5–7 years, but:

  • Damage

  • Chemical exposure

  • High-volume environments …may shorten lifespan.

• Replace if you notice:

  • Reduced image sharpness

  • Artifacts

  • Uneven density