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How Do Metal Detectors Work?

Treasure hunting is gaining popularity worldwide with more amateurs looking for part-time opportunities. However, many misunderstand metal detection. Here is a simple guide on what metal detectors are and why they’re becoming so popular.

What Do Metal Detectors Do?

How do metal detectors work: Metal Detectors Working Principle shown in this image.
Metal Detectors Working Principle

Metal detectors are an incredible tool that work by using a magnetic field and electric current. The beep sound heard when an object is detected is a thrilling moment for any user. Metal detectors are versatile and can detect anything from coins to scrap metal. What makes metal detecting so exciting is that you never know what you may find. In the past, metal detecting was a profession for treasure hunters alone, but now it is a hobby that anyone can enjoy. So, why not give it a try and see what treasures you can uncover?

Metal detecting is gaining popularity among both professionals and hobbyists. The thrill of unearthing hidden treasures is unmatched, and anyone can find valuable items by using a metal detector. If you’re thinking about taking up metal detecting as a pastime, it’s vital to choose the right metal detector for you. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available, including those that use VLF, BFO, and PI technology. With so many possibilities, you’re sure to find one that suits your needs and preferences.

Metal detecting can be a thrilling experience, but with so many options available in the market, finding the best one can be a daunting task. However, worry not, as there are many fantastic options out there waiting to be explored. The best part? Metal detecting is an easy activity that can be enjoyed by anyone. All you need is a permission to search on private property, and you’re all set to go on a treasure hunt. With countless places to explore, such as beaches and even your own backyard, there’s no shortage of adventure to be had. Join the thousands of people who have already discovered the joy of metal detecting today!

How Does a Metal Detector Work? (Search Coil and Other Features)

“Metal detector” can mean different things, from a fun beach treasure hunt to a handheld security device. But both definitions rely on the same basic principle: the relationship between electricity and magnetism. This relationship powers most homes, as electric companies use copper wire in magnetic fields to generate power. Small magnetic generators then power appliances like refrigerators and vacuum cleaners. Metal detectors are more than tools; they show the power of science and tech in our lives.

The Transmitter

The transmitter is the essential component of a detector. It comprises a metal front end, which typically has a loop-shaped coil inside it. The coil transmits an electric current that creates a magnetic field. The current changes direction multiple times per second, and the frequency of these changes is known as the electromagnetic field frequency. Due to this rapidly changing current, the magnetic field also changes direction frequently. Hence, any object in the ground will receive a magnetic field that is continually changing polarity. In most cases, the polarity of the field generated in the metal object will be different from that of the transmitter.

The Receiver

A metal detector generally consists of two coils – the transmitter coil and the receiver coil. The receiver coil is positioned near the transmitter coil. When the transmitter coil generates a magnetic field, a very weak electrical current is produced in the receiver coil. This current needs to be amplified several times to be detectable. The signal generated in the receiver coil is typically delayed as compared to the one in the transmitter coil, which is known as phase shift. When the detector comes across objects like gold or copper, a larger phase shift occurs. Similarly, materials such as iron or bottle caps may also generate a current.

Distinguishing Objects

Through years of research and analysis, it has been discovered that different elements exhibit a unique phase shift. With the advancement of digital technology, this has been further refined. Discrimination is the process of distinguishing between various types of materials. This is a significant feature of metal detectors as it helps to reduce the amount of time spent by treasure hunters. However, one must exercise caution when using the discrimination feature as it may lead to missing out on valuable artifacts. For instance, depending on the setting, one may miss out on silver or iron coins.

If you’re looking for a way to detect valuable metals hidden underground, you have two options. The first one is to use a metal detector that discriminates between different types of metals. This way, only the valuable metals will be detected and you can dig them out. The second option is to use a visual discrimination detector that displays all objects, but only the valuable metals will be indicated on the display. The display can be either in an analog or digital format and in some cases, a digital processor is used. Thanks to advancements in technology, detectors with processors are highly refined, providing better accuracy in identifying the location of valuable metals.

Ground Balancing

In regular soil or sand, small amounts of minerals such as iron can be present. This can make searching for valuable items a difficult task. However, some innovators have addressed this issue and developed a practical solution. The solution works on the principle that the mineral composition in an area tends to remain constant.

Most advanced detectors can perform this task automatically. However, older detectors require that the operator perform this task manually. This is made possible using a rotatable knob on the metal detector. Ground balance is important because the operator raises and lowers the detector in various instances. As a result, the detector is made in a way that accounts for this when it is working.

Pulse Induction

This technique is relatively new compared to VLF. It uses only one coil, which turns on and off to create an electromotive force. This force can be detected by the same coil. The detector works based on the principle of reflection, with the e.m.f. generated is supposed to remain unchanged as it bounces back and forth.

In case there is any interference, the signal will undergo a significant change. This type of detector is not very precise. It is, therefore, most appropriate for detecting explosives at security checkpoints. While it is possible to program it to identify various minerals, a lot of further development is required to make this feasible.

Use of Processors

Metal detectors have become much easier to use thanks to advancements in processor technology. When choosing a metal detector, it is important to consider the quality of its processor. Our website provides a list of the best metal detectors available, so be sure to check it out. With modern processors, tasks that previously would have required significant manual effort can now be performed with just a few button presses.

The usability of metal detectors has been greatly improved by the microprocessor. During the early years, signal processing was very basic because it was difficult to fit all the necessary components onto a detector. The size of the detectors required for this was impractical. However, with the advent of the processor, users can now enjoy capabilities that were impossible to achieve two decades ago.

Will This Be Your New Adventure?

Metal detecting can serve various purposes, as it can be used as a hobby or for security reasons. Understanding the basics of metal detection can help utilize the device optimally. Users must be aware of the device’s capabilities and limitations to achieve the best possible results.

Many people who use metal detectors face a common problem, which is not understanding the underlying concept behind it. Consequently, they may spend weeks searching an area only to have another, more knowledgeable, detectorist come along and find something valuable within hours.

Metal detecting used to be considered uncool, but it’s now becoming increasingly popular and modern. The best part is that there’s a lot of potential out there, and it’s not just limited to finding rare coins or never-before-seen bottle caps that are decades old. That’s the beauty of it all, and it’s becoming more popular because of this reason.

Metal detecting isn’t just about getting modern gems but finding rare trinkets that have never been found.

A more comprehensive guide about technologies and how different types of metal detectors work can be found in this article.

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