From the name metal detectors, it simply means these machines are mainly designed to detect metallic elements. However, metal detectors are not designed to find mineral-based items including glass.
So, you might be wondering how metal detectors sniff out mini liquor bottles since they are made out of glass.
It is simple –
The metal caps of some mini liquor bottles are made of aluminum, which is a highly conductive metal that can be easily detected by metal detectors. This is common knowledge because metal detectors will never pick up the present of mini liquor bottles without the cap.
Also, some liquor bottles with metal caps can be pass undetected by a metal detector because:
- Some metal detectors are set to a specific sensitivity level that might not be able to pick up small or low-metal content objects like the metal caps on certain liquor bottles.
- Also, factors such as the bottle’s size and the detector’s settings can also influence whether it gets detected or not.
- In some cases, the metal caps may be made of materials that are less likely to trigger the detector’s alarm.
Aluminum and metal detectors
Aluminum presents a unique challenge for metal detectors due to its non-ferrous nature. Unlike ferrous metals that contain iron and readily respond to magnetic fields, aluminum lacks these properties. However, this doesn’t mean aluminum can’t be detected by metal detectors.
Most metal detectors are designed to detect a wide range of metals, including both ferrous and non-ferrous varieties. Aluminum falls into the category of non-ferrous metals. Metal detectors use various technologies, including electromagnetic induction and pulse induction, to identify these materials.
Non-ferrous metals like aluminum possess electrical conductivity, which allows them to interact with the electromagnetic fields produced by metal detectors. When an aluminum object passes through the detector’s field, it disturbs the electromagnetic waves or pulses, triggering an alert.
To ensure effective detection of aluminum, metal detectors can be configured with appropriate sensitivity settings and frequency levels. Higher-frequency settings are often used to detect smaller or thinner aluminum objects.
These detectors are widely used in security screening at airports, concerts, and checkpoints, where they can identify not only magnetic metals but also aluminum and other non-ferrous materials. Thus, despite its lack of magnetic properties, aluminum remains detectable by metal detectors through its electrical conductivity.
How to stop your metal detector from detecting aluminum
To prevent a metal detector from detecting aluminum, you can take a few steps. Firstly, adjust the sensitivity settings on the metal detector to a lower level, as aluminum typically requires less sensitivity to be detected.
Secondly, use discrimination settings if your detector has this feature. Discrimination allows you to eliminate signals from specific types of metals like aluminum. You can also employ a smaller search coil, as it may be less sensitive to aluminum items.
If possible, utilize a metal detector with advanced target ID capabilities to better distinguish between different metals. Keep in mind that complete elimination of aluminum detection may be challenging, as it depends on the specific detector’s capabilities and the composition of the aluminum item in question.
Can you wrap aluminum or other metals with undetectable elements to prevent being detected?
While it is theoretically possible to wrap aluminum or other metals with materials that might make them less detectable by some metal detectors, it’s essential to consider the legality and ethical implications of doing so.
Attempting to conceal metal objects intentionally, especially in security-sensitive areas, can be seen as suspicious behavior and may have legal consequences.
That said, here are some ways that people have tried to make metal objects less detectable:
- Coating: You can try to coat the metal with materials like rubber, plastic, or other non-metallic substances. However, this may not always be effective, as metal detectors can still detect the presence of metal beneath certain coatings.
- Concealment: Instead of trying to make the metal undetectable, some individuals try to hide metal objects in inconspicuous places or among other non-metallic items to avoid suspicion.
- Shape and Size: Altering the shape or size of the metal object may reduce its detectability, as smaller or irregularly shaped items may not trigger a metal detector as easily.
- Use Non-metallic Materials: If possible, consider using non-metallic alternatives for objects or items where metal detection is a concern.
It’s crucial to remember that security measures are in place for various reasons, including safety and preventing illegal activities. Attempting to circumvent these measures can have serious consequences. Always follow the rules and regulations in place and seek lawful alternatives to address your needs or concerns.
Bottom line
Not all mini liquor bottles can be found by metal detectors. If your bottle activates the metal detector, it’s not the glass or the alcohol inside causing the alert. The culprit could be the bottle’s cap, which may contain a detectable metal.
Alternatively, if your bottle lacks a metallic cap but triggers the metal detector, it’s possible that a nearby metal object is influencing the detection.
