In the world of metal detectors, it is normal to wonder if metal detectors can detect certain types of metal such as copper.
Copper is a versatile metal with many uses. It is used in electrical wiring, plumbing, construction, and manufacturing. Copper is also used in many other products, such as jewelry, cookware, and musical instruments.
So, will a metal detector detect copper? Yes, most normal metal detectors will detect copper with ease because it is highly conductive! To detect the metal, simply bring the coil close enough to it so that it reacts to the magnetic field generated by your device. The detection depth of a metal detector varies, but it is generally up to 4-6 inches for small objects and 12-18 inches for larger ones.
It is fascinating to consider the value of finding copper, as many people may not realize its true worth. While it is undoubtedly exciting to find gold and other valuable targets, there is also significant value in retrieving other metals like copper.
Copper Belongs to a Family of Detectable Metals
Copper belongs to a family of detectable metals known as conductive metals. Conductive metals are metals that can conduct electricity. When a metal detector’s electromagnetic field passes through a conductive metal, it induces an electric current in the metal. This current creates a magnetic field of its own, which is detected by the metal detector.
Other detectable metals include:
- Aluminum
- Gold
- Iron
- Nickel
- Silver
- Zinc
There are three main types of metals: ferrous, non-ferrous, and stainless steel.
- Ferrous metals contain iron, such as steel and cast iron. Ferrous metals are magnetic and are the most common type of metal.
- Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron, such as copper, aluminum, brass, zinc, lead, tin, titanium, magnesium, etc. Non-ferrous metals are not magnetic and are less common than ferrous metals.
- Stainless steel is a type of alloy steel that is made up of iron, chromium, and other elements. Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and is used in a variety of applications, such as appliances and medical equipment.
Modern metal detectors can detect all three types of metals: ferrous, non-ferrous, and stainless steel. However, some metal detectors are better suited for detecting certain types of metals than others.
What are the Best Metal Detector for Copper
The best metal detectors for copper must be sensitive enough to detect even its low conductivity.
Here are some of the best detectors for copper detecting:
- Garrett AT Pro: The Garrett AT Pro is a versatile metal detector that is well-suited for detecting copper and other metals in a variety of ground conditions. It has a digital display, discrimination, pinpoint mode, and waterproof construction.
- Fisher F22: The Fisher F22 is a lightweight and easy-to-use metal detector that is perfect for beginners. It has a simple interface and a variety of features, including a digital display, discrimination, and pinpoint mode.
- Minelab Equinox 800: The Minelab Equinox 800 is a high-performance metal detector that is well-suited for experienced metal detectorists. It has a variety of features, including a digital display, discrimination, pinpoint mode, and multi-frequency operation.
- Nokta Makro Simplex+: The Nokta Makro Simplex+ is a waterproof metal detector that is perfect for beginners and experienced metal detectorists alike. It has a simple interface and a variety of features, including a digital display, discrimination, and pinpoint mode.
- XP Deus: The XP Deus is a high-performance metal detector that is well-suited for experienced metal detectorists. It has a variety of features, including a digital display, discrimination, pinpoint mode, and wireless operation.
When choosing a metal detector for copper, it is important to consider your budget, experience level, and the ground conditions where you will be using it. The metal detectors on this list are all good choices for detecting copper in a variety of conditions.
How Deep Can A Metal Detector Detect Copper?
In general, most metal detectors can detect copper objects that are buried up to 6-10 inches deep. However, some high-end metal detectors can detect copper objects that are buried up to 12-18 inches deep, or even deeper in ideal conditions.
The depth at which a metal detector can detect copper depends on a number of factors, including:
The type of metal detector being used
There are two main types of metal detectors: pulse induction (PI) and very low frequency (VLF). PI metal detectors are better at detecting large objects at great depths, while VLF metal detectors are better at detecting small objects closer to the surface.
The size and shape of the copper object
Larger copper objects are easier to detect than smaller copper objects. This is because larger objects produce a stronger electromagnetic field. The shape of the copper object can also affect its detectability. For example, a flat copper coin is easier to detect than a round copper ball.
The depth of the object
The deeper the copper object is buried, the more difficult it is to detect. This is because the electromagnetic field from the metal detector weakens as it travels through the ground.
The composition of the soil or other material surrounding the object
Some types of soil, such as clay, can absorb electromagnetic signals from metal detectors. This can make it more difficult to detect copper objects that are buried in these types of soil. Other materials, such as saltwater, can also absorb electromagnetic signals.
The presence of other metals or minerals in the area
Other metals and minerals in the area can interfere with the electromagnetic signal from the metal detector. This can make it more difficult to detect copper objects.
Best place to find copper?
If you are aiming for this metal, it would be wise to know about locations where you will likely find it.
- Mining sites: Copper ore is mined in many parts of the world, including the United States, Chile, Peru, China, and Australia.
- Construction sites: Copper is used in a variety of construction materials, such as wiring, plumbing, and roofing.
- Demolition sites: When old buildings are demolished, the copper wiring and other copper components are often salvaged.
- Electronics recycling centers: Electronics contain a variety of metals, including copper. Electronics recycling centers can extract the copper and other metals from old electronics so that they can be reused.
- Scrap yards: Scrap yards collect all sorts of metal, including copper. You can often sell scrap copper to scrap yards for a small profit.
It is important to note that some areas have laws restricting the collection of scrap metal. Be sure to check the laws in your area before you start collecting scrap copper
