Bucky Tray in Radiology: Function & Models

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　　A bucky tray is the drawer-like holder inside a bucky stand that the X-ray cassette slides into before exposure. In radiology, the bucky tray works with the anti-scatter grid: the tray holds the film steady, and the grid — which moves inside the tray — removes scattered radiation so the image stays sharp.

　　Function of the bucky tray

　　The bucky tray does three jobs:

　　1.Holds the cassette — the tray is sized for standard cassettes (14″ × 17″ and 17″ × 17″) and keeps them flat and stable during exposure.

　　2.Carries the grid — the anti-scatter grid sits inside the tray. When the X-ray is taken, a reciprocating mechanism moves the grid sideways so its lead lines blur and do not appear on the image.

　　3.Aligns with the tube — the tray’s position is adjustable, so the cassette center can be aligned with the X-ray tube for a correct source-to-image distance.

　　Types of bucky trays

　　Manual bucky tray — the tray is positioned by hand and locked mechanically. This is the most common and most economical type.

　　Electric bucky tray — the tray moves with a motor, which is convenient for heavy flat panel detectors and for high-volume departments.

　　Table bucky tray — built into the examination table for supine patients.

　　Vertical bucky tray — built into a vertical bucky stand for chest and spine views.

　　Specifications

　　Tray sizes: 14″ × 17″ (356 × 432 mm) and 17″ × 17″ (432 × 432 mm)

　　Grid: 10:1 ratio, 103 lines/inch, 180 cm focal length

　　Compatible media: film cassette, CR IP board, flat panel detector

　　Buying tips

　　When buying a bucky tray, check that it matches your cassette size and that the grid can be removed for DR operation. For departments that already use flat panel detectors, choose a tray designed for digital detectors. Newheek supplies manual and electric bucky trays as part of its vertical bucky stands, factory-direct with ISO 13485 and CE certification.

　　Frequently asked questions

　　Q: Can I use a bucky tray without a grid?

　　Yes. If your detector does not need an anti-scatter grid, the grid can be removed and the tray used as a plain cassette holder.

　　Q: What size bucky tray do I need?

　　If you use 14″ × 17″ cassettes (the medical standard), choose a 14″ × 17″ tray. Use a 17″ × 17″ tray only if you work with large-format detectors.

　　Q: Is the bucky tray included with the bucky stand?

　　Yes. Newheek bucky stands include the bucky tray and grid as standard. For pricing, email postmaster@newheekxray.com — quotation within 24 hours.

　　Related: Vertical Bucky Grid Stand Features · Bucky in Radiology: Terminology Guide