An x-ray tube 10 is provided including an anode mounted to a rotatable shaft positioned within a center bore of a stem element, a bearing assembly positioned between the rotatable shaft and the stem element, and at least one liquid metal shunt in thermal communication with both the rotatable shaft and the stem element, located adjacent to the anode between the anode and the bearing assembly, and directing heat generated at the anode away from the bearing assembly by allowing heat to flow from the rotatable shaft into the stem element prior to heat reaching the bearing assembly.