Photomultiplier tubes and detector packaging for hostile environments

The performance of a scintillation detector in well-logging environments depends critically on the thermal characteristics and mechanical ruggedness of the photomultiplier tube (PMT) used in the detector, and on the design of the PMT and scintillation crystal assembly. A tube is discussed that demonstrates excellent performance at temperatures as high as 200 degrees C, long life, and extreme mechanical ruggedness. Important mechanical design considerations for scintillation detector assemblies are discussed, and test results presented for the very rugged detector package designed for use in mechanically demanding measurement-while-drilling applications.<>