The metal detector is a gadget that is used for research seeking for metal things. It is frequently termed a “frying pan” because of the round shape of its end.
It works by transmitting an electromagnetic current to the earth. When the current hits a metallic object, the latter reflects an electromagnetic field back to the instrument. The metal detector’s search coil then informs the user to the presence of a metallic object, also called a target , with a sound. The aural warning is subsequently amplified using a loudspeaker or routed to the helmet worn by the user.
The metal detector has a discrimination capacity . This involves the detection of buried metallic items according to their conductive and / or ferrous characteristics. Thus, the user can identify the composition of the object and decide whether to dig it up or not.
The metal detector is made up of the following parts:
- A battery that powers the device.
- The control box which warns the user of the presence of a metallic object. It contains all the electronic components of the detector.
- The search coil that emits the electromagnetic current. It also receives the answer emitted by the metal object.
Who is it for?
Reviews acquired during testing of the top types of metal detectors reveal that this equipment is primarily meant for security personnel at all critical sites, such as airports, banks and significant businesses.
That is a crucial feature to ensure security by identifying bladed weapons in particular. It is also meant for enthusiasts of discoveries and excavations or even environmentalists to be able to unearth metal garbage.
This is also suitable for aficionados of treasure digging to find lost coins or even riches. This equipment despite its intricacy is not difficult to use even for beginners.
How does a metal detector work?
Whether professional or designed for leisure, the metal detector system is the same: the coil inserted at the end will emit modest dosages of current to obtain a magnetic field. Once the current received by the buried metal object, it will return waves upsetting the field, which will generate a difference in voltages.
The alarm will then be triggered; versions can optionally vibrate in addition to creating an auditory alert. A speaker is responsible for boosting the warning or otherwise a headset.
It detects absolutely all types of metals and independent of the composition of the thing. According to various comparison studies, the metal detector is provided with a discrimination feature to gain an idea of this composition.
Advantages & places of application
Apart from the sector of security, the metal detector is also employed in the army to identify bombs, mines or other dangerous weapons which can be buried by the adversary. In airports, shopping mall metal detectors is used as walk through metal detector for entrance security. Some archaeologists also need it for their professional digs. Among its merits are its efficiency, power and performance.
This swiftly identifies things and allows them to be recognized thanks to other features: discrimination and screen, among others. It helps to readily find misplaced jewelry or cash on the beach. Its use is easy.
In addition, buyer reviews claim that it is the perfect ally for lovers of treasure hunting and other admirers of antique goods. However, care must be exercised, as its usage is regulated by law.
owever, its use is regulated by legislation . It can be used on private land with the approval of the owner of the place . Its use on the beach is tolerated unless a city hall ordinance restricts its use.
However, it is necessary to ensure that users of a metal detector are not at an archaeological site . The use of metal detectors for archaeological purposes is subject to prior authorization from the prefect.
What sorts of metal detector are there?
The choice of a metal detector is defined according to the use you wish to make of it and your preferences. Our comparison made from tests will help you pick the finest metal detector.
The very low frequency metal detector
The very low frequency detector is a gadget whose transmission frequency is less than 100 kHz. It is the model that is most widely seen on the market but also the most economical . This is the excellent device for recreation. It is sometimes dubbed a VLE (very low frequency) detector .
Advantages :
- It is easy to find in stores.
- Its pricing is cheap.
- It is able to differentiate against small non-ferrous objects such as aluminum for example.
Disadvantages:
- It works at shallow depth only (up to 20 cm most typically) (up to 20 cm most often).
- It is less effective in soils rich in minerals and polluted.
The pulsed induction metal detector:
This type of detector delivers superior efficiency, being more powerful. Customer reviews claim that it is ideal for professional use. It allows you to find a buried thing even at a depth of 3.5 m, regardless of the size of the object.
The effect of the ground does not have significant impact on its performance and its use is not complex. Its top is not oval unlike the preceding style, it is rather a frame.
What types of metal detectors are there?
The comments of consumers obtained throughout various comparative tests make it possible to highlight the existence of 3 types of metal detectors.
The extremely low frequency metal detector:
As its name suggests, this gadget has a very low frequency, less than 100KHZ. It is one of the earliest models seen abundantly on the market. It is also the cheapest equipment using this technology on the market.
Easy to use and lightweight, it is great for leisure use. In addition, it can recognize non-ferrous objects like aluminum. Since it is low frequency it is less effective than other varieties especially on mineral rich soils, it can only reach up to 20cm deep.
Advantages :
- Cheapest price on the market;
- Easy to use ;
- Slightweight.
Disadvantages:
- less efficient than other models;
- limited to 20 cm deep.
The pulsed induction metal detector:
This type of detector delivers superior efficiency, being more powerful. Customer reviews claim that it is ideal for professional use. It allows you to find a buried thing even at a depth of 3.5 m, regardless of the size of the object.
The effect of the ground does not have significant impact on its performance and its use is not complex. Its top is not oval unlike the preceding style, it is rather a frame.
It is however less accessible than the other sorts and of course more expensive. Its limit is very contaminated soil.
Advantages :
- good performance;
- range up to 3.5 meters;
- easy to use.
Disadvantages:
- rather expensive price;
- not particularly efficient on contaminated soils.
Ground penetrating radar
It is an extremely powerful instrument for detecting metal things buried quite deep in the ground . Better yet, it allows you to find the thing in 3D even before having unearthed it. The detecting depth reaches between 10 and 30 meters. The ground penetrating radar is generally expensive and requires strong knowledge of mineralogy and geology.
Advantages :
- That is highly efficient.
- Delivers a 3D depiction of the object.
- It works on all types of terrain.
Disadvantages:
- It is pricey.
- It is not meant for beginners.
What does science say about the metal detector?
The judgment of scientists is unanimous: it is about a tool with a complicated and powerful technology which tends to push back the limits of innovation. It is of enormous utility, as much in the professional sector as in the leisure plan. It may be a genuine ally for history aficionados and other collectors of ancient artifacts.
Metal detectors also helps to maintain the environment from metallic and non-degradable garbage present in nature. The production procedure of a metal detector does not have a big influence on the environment.
Alternatives to metal detector
If consumer type metal detectors are not suited for your purposes, be aware that there are other specialised and considerably more high-end metal detectors. These models are mostly intended for experts, although nothing precludes an enthusiast from having them, if not their price.
Otherwise, it is also feasible to choose for more traditional solutions by using items such as the spade, the pickaxe, or the scraper. For enthusiasts of new technology, there are presently mobile applications that work as metal detectors that you can install on your smartphone. They are also highly effective according to the comments acquired during the many comparative examinations.
Feature Image: Beach photo created by wirestock – www.freepik.com
