Selecting a Radiation Detector
Selecting the right radiation detector for a specific situation involves consideration of several technical factors, some of which are obvious and some of which may not be. You may need more than one kind of detector, one for neutrons and one for ionizing radiation. The range of radiation a device detects is possibly the most important criterion.
Operating Range
Any radiation detector works across a wide range of radiation amounts but that range is limited. These ranges have been quantified and classified in slightly different ways by different organizations. When shopping for a new radiation detector, you may see the range specified in qualitative terms like “low radiation” or “cold radiation” or something similar. If you know the common, quantitative meaning of those terms in your industry then use them to filter your choices.
An even better approach is to look at the range of radiation events that the device can handle. If your working environment or lab will be mostly dealing with low levels of alpha and beta radiation, certain detectors will not work. If you need a detector for dangerous levels of ionizing radiation, other devices can be ruled out.
Contamination Versus Exposure
Measuring radiation exposure is a common activity in lab and industrial settings. In some applications, you are more interested in contamination in how radioactive a location or item is. Look for a device that has a fast response mode to help users quickly locate a contaminated spot. A slow response mode can then quantify the amount of contamination. Naturally, the exposure type such as neutrons or beta radiation is important as a detector for one may not work on the other.
The Radiation Alert ® Series
S.E. International sells and services radiation detectors and monitors. Our Radiation Alert® series of digital radiation detectors for lab and industrial settings incorporate decades of design and manufacturing experience. Six models with a variety of special features mean there is a radiation detector for most any scientific and industrial application.
If you are looking for a new radiation detector, visit their site and take a closer look at the numerous options they offer.
