[fetteler]

I reckon the bend in the electrode structure is due to impact. There is a very flexible point as the contacts to the electrodes exit the glass base of the valve and if the valve is dropped (in its packaging of course!) then depending on the direction of the impact the inertia of the electrode is enough to bend the support. The electrodes in the picture are leaning over at a greater angle than the glass stub they are attached to... Always go for the simple explanation!

Cheers,
Steve.