αPHYSICAL HAZARD

Alpha Radiation Detectors: Rent or Buy

Alpha particles are a form of ionizing radiation emitted by radioactive materials such as uranium, thorium, radium, and radon. Because alpha particles have low penetrating power and are stopped by a sheet of paper or the outer layer of skin, external exposure is generally not a concern.

Shop alpha particles monitoring equipment 866-736-8347
TOP ALPHA PARTICLES RENTAL
Ranger EXP with Pancake Probe by SE International - Geiger Counter
Geiger Counter · Area
Ranger EXP with Pancake Probe by SE International
Starting at $60.00 / day
Configure & rent Quote for multiple units

TWO OPTIONS, SIDE BY SIDE

Monitoring Equipment to Rent for Alpha Particles

We rent two instruments for alpha particles. Their specifications are listed side by side so you can see which fits the job.

Ranger by SE International - Handheld Geiger Counter
Monitoring
Area
Type
Internal 2-inch pancake Geiger-Müller tube
Measures
Alphabetagamma and X-ray radiation
Range
0.001 mR/hr (1 µR/hr) to 100 mR/hr
Resolution / accuracy
Accuracy ±15% typical from the factory
Battery run time
Approx. 800 hours at background
Intrinsically safe
Data logging
$60.00 Starting at /per day
Configure Product
Ranger EXP with Pancake Probe by SE International - Geiger Counter
Monitoring
Area
Type
External 2-inch pancake Geiger-Müller probe, RAP-RS2
Measures
Alphabetagamma and X-ray radiation
Range
0.001 mR/hr (1 µR/hr) to 100 mR/hr
Resolution / accuracy
Accuracy ±15% typical from the factory
Battery run time
Approx. 800 hours at background
Intrinsically safe
Data logging
$60.00 Starting at /per day
Configure Product

WHERE EXPOSURE OCCURS

Risks: Where Alpha Particles Exposure Occurs

Alpha particle monitoring helps identify contamination risks where alpha-emitting materials may be present. Rent alpha detection instruments from RAECO Rents for radon and remediation work, mining and milling environments, and nuclear or research facilities. Our team provides practical guidance on the right detector and survey approach, with fast turnaround and phone support so you can collect usable field readings.

Contamination surveys

Alpha emitters stay on surfaces and are a hazard if inhaled or swallowed.

Typical setup: A Geiger counter with a pancake probe held close to the surface.

Oil, gas & mining (NORM)

Scale and sludge with naturally occurring radioactive material.

Typical setup: Pancake probe surveys of equipment and surfaces.

Laboratories & decommissioning

Facilities that used alpha-emitting materials.

Typical setup: Pancake probe surveys before and after cleanup.

When do rental charges start? On the Rental Start Date you choose, not the day we ship. See how renting works

Alpha Particles monitoring questions

All rental FAQs →
What should I know before renting alpha survey equipment?
Alpha radiation has very limited range in air and is stopped by most materials. Alpha survey instruments need to be used very close to the surface (within a centimeter or less) and in conditions where contamination isn’t covered by water, dust, or other material. Confirm the isotope(s) of concern, whether surface or air sampling is needed, and whether you need a wipe-and-count approach versus direct measurement.
Can a regular Geiger counter detect alpha contamination?
Only with a thin end window. Both Rangers have a thin mica window that lets alpha above 2 MeV through. Hold it 1–2 cm from the surface and move slowly. Water, paint or dust on the surface can block alpha.
How do I tell whether a reading is alpha, beta or gamma?
Hold the window close to the source without touching it. If a sheet of paper between the window and the source stops the reading, it's most likely alpha. If about 3 mm (1/8 in.) of aluminum stops or reduces it, it's most likely beta. Gamma passes through both. Most isotopes emit both beta and gamma, so expect the reading to drop rather than stop.

Not sure which alpha particles monitoring equipment fit your job?

Tell us where the hazard is and how many workers need coverage. We'll recommend the instrument, range and alarm settings.

Call 866-736-8347 Request a Quote

For educational purposes only. Exposure limits are summarized from the cited agencies; confirm monitoring requirements for your site with a qualified safety professional.