Understanding Metal Detector Numbers
Metal detectors are essential tools for treasure hunters, hobbyists, and security personnel. One key feature of these devices is the numerical identification of different metals. Here’s a closer look at what the numbers on a metal detector mean.
How Metal Detectors Work
Metal detectors operate by emitting electromagnetic fields that create signals when they interact with metallic objects underground. As the detector moves over different types of metals, it analyzes the returned signals, translating them into numeric values.
Common Number Ranges
Different metal detectors may use varying systems, but most adhere to a general scale:
- Iron (1-10): Typically low numbers indicate ferrous metals like iron. These signals are often rejected or ignored by treasure hunters aiming for more valuable finds.
- Nickel (10-20): Nickel falls into a mid-range category and often produces distinct signals that can help in identifying nickels and similar metals.
- Gold (20-30): Gold signals are usually represented by numbers in the low thirties, although this can vary slightly depending on the specific metal and its alloy composition.
- Copper and Brass (30-50): These numbers often fall within this range. Distinguishing between different types of metals in this category can be challenging without further analysis.
- Silver (50-90): Silver generally produces higher readings on the scale, with most reports indicating a number between 60-80.
- Miscellaneous Metals (above 90): This range can involve various non-ferrous metals and alloys, often indicating valuable finds like jewelry or coins.
Importance of Discrimination Features
Many modern metal detectors come equipped with discrimination settings that allow users to ignore certain numerical ranges. This feature helps minimize unwanted signals from common trash items such as foil or caps, enhancing the likelihood of uncovering valuables.
Conclusion
Understanding the numbers on a metal detector can significantly improve your detecting success. By familiarizing yourself with the common ranges associated with various metals, you can make informed decisions while searching. Happy hunting!