Cobalt-57 Calibration Tubes
Cobalt-57 (Co-57) calibration tube sources are widely used in nuclear medicine and radiation detection for instrument calibration, quality control, and counter efficiency monitoring and verification. Sealed solid state sources emit low-energy gamma photons primarily at 122 keV, ideal for normalization and verification of gamma counters and detectors designed to measure similar energy ranges.
Matching Set
A set of Co-57 tubes typically consists of multiple solid state sealed sources with nearly identical activity minimizing variability during calibration and verification procedures. Matched sets are usually specified within a tight tolerance at ±1.5% or better. A Daily DPM Log with the expected daily DPM for each set of tubes is provided for verification of counter efficiencies. Cobalt 57 calibrators are NIST Traceable.
Design and Construction
Co-57 calibration tubes are solid state and sealed to prevent leaks or contamination and ensure long-term stability. They are often encapsulated in durable materials , depending on the application. The tubes are standardized to fit common holders, well counters, or gamma counters. Tube size are 12 x 75 mm.
Cobalt 57 Solid State Source Calibrators for
- Gamma Counter Calibration: Ensures accurate counting efficiency and energy calibration
- Dose Calibrator Checks: Verifies consistency and linearity of dose measurement devices
- Quality Control: Routine checks in clinical and research laboratories
- Instrument Validation: Used during installation and maintenance of detection systems
- Assay Development: Supports reproducibility in radioimmunoassays and tracer studies
Handling and Safety
Although Co-57 sources are low activity and sealed, they should still be handled according to safety guidelines and local regulations. Proper storage, tracking, and periodic verification of activity are recommended to maintain compliance and accuracy.