What is a detector? What are the types?

Detectors are advanced technological devices capable of detecting valuable substances and elements through electromagnetic signals sent underground. These devices identify the reflections of their signals from objects beneath the surface, providing the user with information about the presence and sometimes the type of these objects.

Widely used in treasure hunting and underground exploration, metal detectors come in various types to meet different searching needs. They are ideal for finding valuable metals like gold, as well as a variety of other metal objects, playing a significant role in archaeological digs, treasure hunts, and security checks.

However, not every detector is designed to identify every type of material. For instance, someone searching for gold should opt for a metal detector sensitive enough to detect gold. On the other hand, searching for different elements or materials may require different types of detectors, each responding to specific elements.

The operating principle of these devices is fundamentally based on the use of electromagnetic fields. The signals sent underground are altered by objects they encounter, and these changes are detected and relayed back to the user. This feedback can take the form of an audio signal, a digital display, or a graphical interface. The user's experience and the features of the device significantly affect the accuracy and detail level of the detected objects.

What are the Detector Types?

Detectors are categorized based on their usage purpose and the types of substances they detect. Here are some common types of detectors:

Metal Detector: Commonly used to detect gold, silver, and other metals. It is widely used in treasure hunting, archaeological excavations, and security checks.

Gold Detector: Specifically designed to detect valuable metals like gold. Frequently used by gold seekers and miners.

Handheld Security Detector: Used in airports, concert halls, and similar security-required places to detect metal objects on individuals.

Food Metal Detector: Used in the food industry to detect metal particles that may mix into food products during production.

Smoke Detector: Designed for fire safety, it detects smoke and alerts to fire hazards.

Gas Detector: Detects the leakage of dangerous gases like carbon monoxide and natural gas. Used in homes and industrial facilities.

Radiation Detector: Detects radiation emitted by radioactive materials. Used in nuclear facilities and radioactive research.

Radar Detector: Mainly used in vehicles to detect radar-based speed detection devices and alert the driver.

Ultrasonic Detector: Uses high-frequency sound waves for various applications, such as detecting material flaws or leaks in pipelines.

Magnetic Field Detector: Used to detect metal objects underground or behind walls, especially iron and steel.

This variety demonstrates that detectors have a wide range of applications, and each is specifically designed for a particular need or sector.

Things to Know About the Detector

Metal detectors are advanced electronic search devices, typically powered by lithium batteries or cells. These devices detect the presence of metals by analyzing the reflections of signals they send underground. In high-voltage environments, the sensitivity of these detectors can be affected, leading to misleading results, hence it's advised not to use them near high voltage lines.

The depth of search of metal detectors varies depending on the size of their coils. Generally, as the coil size increases, so does the device's search depth. These devices range from simple models that only indicate the presence of metal to more advanced models capable of distinguishing between different types of metals, such as gold, silver, and bronze.

The quality and performance of metal detectors can vary based on factors such as brand and price. Many globally recognized and reputable brands offer a variety of models. The depth capacity of these devices also depends on the size of the object being searched for; for instance, a small bracelet and an 80x80 cm tray can be detected at different depths.

For effective use of metal detectors, the geographical features of the search area, weather conditions, and terrain structure are as important as the device's characteristics. While some detectors can be affected by moist or rainy conditions, there are special models designed for underwater use. Therefore, it is important to conduct detailed research on the features and operating conditions of a detector before purchasing or using it.