GE 1.5T MRI scanners are among the most popular systems in the world. They're reliable, easy to service, and when maintained properly, produce high-quality images.
Still, like any frequently-used MRI system, they are subject to wear and tear and eventual parts failure.
If you're new to GE 1.5T ownership or considering a purchase, the following are some of the most common parts failures reported to our service team.
Keep them in mind to help you and your team stay ahead of equipment downtime.
Coil Repair
Your MRI system's coils are subject to a lot of movement and are likely to need repair at some point over the lifespan of your magnet. Depending on the severity of the damage, repairs to a coil typically range between $4,500 and $6,500. This range includes materials and repair technician labor.
If your coil is damaged beyond repair, you can see the average pricing for replacement coils here.
Gradient Amplifier
Gradient amplifiers produce a lot of heat and require a lot of cooling. Running at this capacity and fluctuating in temperature like this causes your gradient components to wear down and, eventually, fail. Signs of failure include failed image sequences and entire acquisitions.
Artifacts and “fuzzy” images can also be an indicator that a gradient amplifier is failing. Replacing a gradient amplifier on your 1.5T will likely cost between $10,000 and $12,000.
Mouse/Keyboard/SCSI Drive
Mouse or keyboard problems are usually pretty obvious: unresponsive cursor, intermittent key response, etc. Replacements can be turned around for about $100.
If the workstation begins to slow in responsiveness and overall performance when running the MR software, it may indicate a failure of the SCSI drive.
Other signs include failed start-ups, “blue screens of death”, and computer freezes. If these symptoms appear, call your service provider and tell them what you suspect so that their engineer can have a new drive in hand.
A new SCSI drive and the labor to format and install it average between $1,200 and $1,500.
Coldhead
The measure of coldhead performance is called the "re-condensing margin." There should be a recommended range for this margin in your system's documentation.
The metrics for this number can be found on your console. If the recondensing margin fluctuates or falls while the compressor is working properly, this could be a sign that the coldhead is nearing the end of its useful life. Average lifespans for coldheads range from two to four years.
A replacement coldhead and installation costs between $5,000 and $9,000.
The Takeaway
Keeping up proper maintenance on your magnet and its chiller will go a long way toward keeping your GE 1.5T MRI in top shape. Keep in mind even the most well-maintained systems will still need a fresh part from time to time.
Being mindful of the parts above will help you know what to look for as well as plan your parts budget ahead of time.
The Block Imaging parts team is always here to help with your medical imaging parts needs. With 35,000+ parts in stock, ready to ship same-day. Call us toll-free at 1-877-621-2887 Mon-Fri 7:00 am to 8:00 pm EST or request a part online.
Steve Rentz
