Do Metal Detectors Detect Non-Ferrous Metals? 

Ever buried treasure in your backyard? Wonder if your metal detector can find non-ferrous metals like gold? Dive in to unravel this metallic mystery!

Do metal detectors detect non-ferrous metals

There’s always this rumor among metal-detecting hobbyists that non-ferrous metals cannot be detected by metal detectors. 

Well, this might have been correct if there was no advanced technology. 

But since it’s all here, the question can be recalled and answered. 

I personally did research about detecting non-ferrous metals and found lots of info thanks to the experts.

So, let’s talk about, Can metal detectors detect non-ferrous metals?’.

Yes, metal detectors can detect non-ferrous metals such as gold, silver, copper, and aluminum. Their efficiency in detecting these metals varies based on the device’s capabilities and settings. Always ensure your detector is tuned properly for optimal results.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

Most people have questions about non-ferrous metals and their characteristics. 

In this article, I’ll explore can metal detectors detect non-ferrous metals and how to detect them using the right techniques with all the trips and tricks.

Furthermore, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions as well.

Let’s jump in!

Non-ferrous metals
Non-ferrous metals

What Are Non-Ferrous Metals?

When a specific metal is known as non-ferrous, it means that the metal does not contain any iron in the composition. 

Ferrous or iron is the main reason why metal alloys are magnetic. Without its presence, none of the metals would be magnetic. 

Non-ferrous metals have one common characteristic: they don’t rust. This means that they never foam a reddish flake when they are exposed to corrosive environments. 

Some of the popular non-ferrous metals are aluminum, copper and nickel. These are highly used in the metal industry currently and are on high demand.

Did you know fact about non-ferrous metals
Did you know fact about non-ferrous metals

Non-Ferrous Metals Vs Ferrous Metals

Ferrous metals contain iron in them. These are strong compared to non-ferrous metals. Heat treatment has the ability to improve the properties of these metals. 

Ferrous metals tend to corrode. But the percentage of corrosion depends on the included amount of iron in the ferrous metal. 

Non-ferrous metals don’t have iron. These metals, therefore, don’t have any magnetic properties. Non-ferrous metals do not corrode. 

They form an oxide layer that functions as a barrier. However, these metals are not much stronger compared to ferrous metals. 

In most cases, non-ferrous metals are quite expensive than ferrous metals. 

Have a look at below table to identify the differences between ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

Ferrous MetalsNon-Ferrous Metals
Contains ironDoes not contain iron
Magnetic (usually)Non-magnetic (usually)
Prone to rustGenerally corrosion-resistant
Heavier (generally)Lighter (generally)
Examples: iron, steelExamples: aluminum, copper, gold
Characteristic of non-ferrous metals
Characteristic of non-ferrous metals

Can Metal Detectors Detect Non-Ferrous Metals?

Yes! Metal detectors can detect non-ferrous metals. Actually, modern metal detectors are designed to detect both ferrous and non-ferrous metals. 

Even though non-ferrous metals don’t have magnetic properties, they still have electrical conductivity. This allows them to react with magnetic fields.  

Metal detectors produce a magnetic field that induces a current in metals. This will tend the metals to produce their own magnetic field. 

These changes are then detected by the metal detectors and it will produce a signal with a sound or display. 

Some metal detectors are specially made to detect non-ferrous metals. These are more sensitive compared to normal metal detectors. 

The settings are advanced and modified to detect and distinguish between different metals. 

Gold coin found from ground when metal detecting
Gold coin found from ground when metal detecting

Factors Affecting Detection Of Non-Ferrous Metals

The process of detecting non-ferrous metals can be affected by many factors. 

Here are some of the factors that I came across.

Type Of the Detector 

Metal detectors are different from one another and each of them was designed for different purposes. 

There are some detectors that are specifically designed to detect non-ferrous metals. 

Frequency Of the Detector

Frequency also affects the accuracy of detecting non-ferrous metals. 

High frequencies will detect small non-ferrous metals while low frequencies are able to detect big objects.

Sensitivity Of the Detector

A higher sensitivity level is required in order to detect non-ferrous metals because some of them have very low conductivity.

Aluminum artifact found from ground when metal detecting
Aluminum artifact found from ground when metal detecting

Depth

If the objects are buried deeper, it needs to be detected with higher sensitivity. 

This also depends on the conductivity of the non-ferrous metal. 

If you’re interested in detection depths, Read How Deep Can a Metal Detector Detect?

Size of the Non-ferrous Metal

Smaller non-ferrous metals require more sensitive detection in order to be detected accurately. 

So a detector should be high in sensitivity in order to identify a non-ferrous metal object.

Conductivity Of the Metal

If the non-ferrous metal has a higher conductivity, the chances of detecting it are more high. Metals that have a lower conductivity will be challenging to detect.

Copper jewelry found from ground when metal detecting
Copper jewelry found from ground when metal detecting

Discrimination Settings

Discrimination settings of a detector can be set according to the type of metal that needs to be detected. 

Non-ferrous metals require different discrimination settings in order to find them accurately. So it has to be set in metal detectors.

Interference from Other Metal Objects 

Metal detectors are designed to detect both types of metals. 

Therefore the metal objects can interfere with the detection of non-ferrous metals. 

So a detector should be able to differentiate the ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

Environmental Factors 

The type of soil, mineralization, and electromagnetic interference can affect the search for non-ferrous metals. 

To avoid this, a metal detector that has the ability to use in highly mineralized soil can be used. 

Tip for finding non-ferrous metals
Tip for finding non-ferrous metals

What Non-Ferrous Metals Can Be Detected By Metal Detectors?

Metal detectors are designed to detect different types of non-ferrous metals. 

Here are some of the non-ferrous metals that can be detected by metal detectors,

  • Copper
  • Aluminum
  • Brass
  • Silver
  • Gold
  • Nickel
  • Tin
  • Lead
  • Zinc
  • Platinum
  • Bronze
  • Palladium
  • Chromium
  • Tungsten
  • Mercury

Let’s discuss the detection capabilities of each of the above non-ferrous metals in detail.

Copper

Copper is a highly conductive metal. This is also ductile. Copper is mainly used in electrical appliances, plumbing, different fittings, and artifacts. 

This metal is quite easy to find since it is high in conductivity.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Copper?

Here are the Best Places to Find Copper when Metal Detecting

Aluminum 

It is a light, strong and non-corrosive metal that has a lower conductivity. 

This metal will be quite harder to detect. Aluminum is used in construction and packaging. 

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Aluminum?

Here are the Best Places to Find Aluminum when Metal Detecting

Brass

It is an alloy that is composed of copper and zinc. Brass is often used for artifacts, plumbing fixtures, and different instruments. 

This is a highly conductive non-ferrous metal and can be detected easily.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Brass?

Here are the Best Places to Find Brass when Metal Detecting

Brass coin found from ground when metal detecting
Brass coin found from ground when metal detecting

Silver

Silver is a valuable non-ferrous metal that has moderate conductivity. It is mainly used in jewelry manufacturing. 

This is also a metal that can be detected easily.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Silver?

Here are the Best Places to Find Silver coins when Metal Detecting

Gold

Gold relatively has poor conductivity. It is a highly valuable metal that is used for jewelry making. 

With a special metal detector, it can still be detected.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Gold?

Here are the Best Places to Find Gold when Metal Detecting

Nickel

Nickel is a hard, durable, and non-corrosive metal that is used in electronics and other industrial products. 

It is a highly conductive metal and therefore it can be detected easily.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Nickel?

Here are the Best Places to Find Nickel when Metal Detecting

Nickel coin found from ground when metal detecting
Nickel coin found from ground when metal detecting

Tin

Tin is a soft metal that has a silvery white color. 

It may be difficult to detect this non-ferrous metal due to its poor conductivity. 

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Tin Foil?

Here are the Best Places to Find Tin when Metal Detecting

Lead

Lead is a soft and dense metal used to make batteries. 

It has relatively poor conductivity and might be a little bit challenging to detect with some of the metal detectors.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Lead?

Here are the Best Places to Find Lead when Metal Detecting

Zinc

Zinc is a bright bluish non-ferrous metal that is used in galvanizing and making batteries.

It is a relatively poor conductor and might be a challenge to find. 

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Zinc?

Here are the Best Places to Find Zinc when Metal Detecting

Platinum 

It is a valuable metal that is used in jewelry making and as an industrial catalyst. Platinum is highly conductive and it can be easily detected. 

But this is a rare type of non-ferrous metal. 

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Platinum?

Here are the Best Places to Find Platinum when Metal Detecting

Bronze

Bronze is considered a non-ferrous metal because it does not contain significant amounts of iron. 

Bronze, being primarily an alloy of copper and tin, fits the non-ferrous category.

Bronze can be detected by metal detectors. Metal detectors identify metals based on their conductivity and not necessarily their magnetic properties. 

Bronze, being a good conductor of electricity, will induce eddy currents when exposed to the magnetic field of a metal detector, leading to detection.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Bronze?

Here are the Best Places to Find Bronze when Metal Detecting

Palladium

Palladium, like other non-ferrous metals, can be detected by metal detectors due to its conductive properties. 

Metal detectors operate based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. 

When the magnetic field from a metal detector’s transmitter coil interacts with a metal object, it induces eddy currents in that metal. 

These eddy currents, in turn, produce a secondary magnetic field, which is detected by the receiver coil of the metal detector. 

Palladium’s ability to conduct electricity makes it responsive to this process, thereby allowing its presence to be indicated by the metal detector, irrespective of its non-ferrous nature.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Palladium?

Here are the Best Places to Find Palladium when Metal Detecting

Chromium

Chromium, although a non-ferrous metal, is detectable by metal detectors due to its electrical conductivity. 

Metal detectors function on the principle of electromagnetic induction. 

When the detector’s transmitter coil generates a magnetic field, metals like chromium respond by producing eddy currents. 

These eddy currents subsequently give rise to a secondary magnetic field, distinguishable by the metal detector’s receiver coil. 

The inherent electrical conductivity of chromium ensures its detectability, regardless of it being devoid of iron content.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Chromium?

Tungsten

Tungsten, a non-ferrous metal, can be identified by metal detectors because of its conductive characteristics. 

Metal detectors operate on the foundational principle of electromagnetic induction. As the detector’s transmitter coil emits a magnetic field, metals such as tungsten generate eddy currents in response. 

These eddy currents then create a secondary magnetic field, which the detector’s receiver coil picks up. 

The inherent electrical conductivity of tungsten facilitates its recognition by the detector, even in the absence of any iron content.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Tungsten?

Here are the Best Places to Find Tungsten when Metal Detecting

Mercury

Mercury, distinct for being a liquid metal at room temperature, is also detectable by metal detectors owing to its electrical conductivity. 

The foundational working principle of metal detectors is electromagnetic induction. 

When the magnetic field from the detector’s transmitter coil interacts with a conductive material, such as mercury, it induces eddy currents. 

These eddy currents subsequently spawn a secondary magnetic field that is sensed by the detector’s receiver coil. 

This intrinsic electrical conductivity of mercury ensures it can be detected, even though it’s a non-ferrous metal.

Read to know Can Your Metal Detector Detect Mercury?

Here are the Best Places to Find Mercury when Metal Detecting

Tip for finding non-ferrous metal treasures
Tip for finding non-ferrous metal treasures

Best Metal Detectors To Detect Non-Ferrous Metals

There are several metal detectors that have settings specifically made to detect non-ferrous metals. 

Here’s a list,

  • Garrett AT Pro
  • Fisher F70
  • Minelab Equinox 800
  • XP Deus
  • Nokta Makro Gold Kruzer
  • Whites MX Sport
  • Teknetics T2 Classic 
  • Garrett AT Gold
  • Fisher Gold Bug Pro
  • Minelab X-Terra 705 Gold Pack
  • Whites GMT
  • Tesoro Outlaw

How Do Metal Detectors Detect Non-Ferrous Metals? 

Metal detectors are able to detect non-ferrous metals by using the electromagnetic field. 

As the coil of a detector passes over a non-ferrous metal object, it creates an electromagnetic field around the coil. 

This happens differently in different metals depending on their conductivity. 

Metals like gold, silver, and copper are non-ferrous with high conductivity. 

So when the electromagnetic field of the coil reacts with the non-ferrous metal, it induces a current. 

Then this signal will be detected by the metal detector system and signals on the presence of the metal. 

Some of the detectors also have filters that can filter out the unwanted signals that can be caused by ferrous metals like iron. 

This is to make the detection of non-ferrous metals more accurate and effective. 

How to find non-ferrous metals
How to find non-ferrous metals

How To Detect Non-Ferrous Metals Using Metal Detectors

Metal detectors are fascinating tools, often used in treasure hunts or to find lost items under the ground.

While these devices can detect a wide range of metals, not all metals are the same.

Metals are broadly categorized into ferrous and non-ferrous types.

Ferrous metals, like iron and steel, contain iron, whereas non-ferrous metals, such as copper, aluminum, and gold, do not. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to detect non-ferrous metals using a metal detector.

So, let’s dive in!

Understanding Metal Detector Basics

Before we jump into the specifics, it’s essential to understand how a metal detector works.

1. Principle of Operation

Metal detectors work on the principle of electromagnetism. They transmit an electromagnetic field into the ground using a coil.

When this electromagnetic field comes into contact with a metal object, it induces a current in the metal, which the detector senses and alerts the user.

Example: It’s like when you throw a stone in a calm pond, and it creates ripples.

The metal detector sends out waves, and when they hit a metal, they create ‘ripples’ that the detector can pick up.

Setting Up Your Metal Detector for Non-Ferrous Metals

2. Choose the Right Detector

There are various types of metal detectors available, each designed for specific purposes.

For detecting non-ferrous metals, opt for a Very Low Frequency (VLF) detector.

VLF detectors can differentiate between different types of metals, making them perfect for our purpose.

Example: Imagine you’re at a noisy party and you’re trying to hear a specific voice.

The VLF detector is like having the ability to tune into that one voice amidst all the noise.

3. Adjust the Discrimination Settings

Most metal detectors come with a discrimination setting. This setting allows you to filter out certain types of metals.

Turn up the discrimination to ignore ferrous metals and focus only on non-ferrous ones.

Example: It’s akin to having a playlist where you can skip the songs you don’t want to hear.

The Process of Detection

4. Ground Balance

Before you start detecting, ensure you set the ground balance.

Different soils have varied mineral content, and by balancing your detector, you neutralize the effects of these minerals.

Example: Think of it as calibrating a scale before weighing something.

5. Sweep Slowly and Methodically

When searching, move your detector side-to-side in a sweeping motion, ensuring the search coil is close to the ground but not touching.

It’s essential to go slowly to ensure you don’t miss any targets.

Example: It’s like using a flashlight in the dark. You move it slowly to ensure you cover every inch of the area.

6. Listen for Signals

Your detector will make a sound when it finds a metal. The tone and intensity will vary based on the metal type and its depth.

Non-ferrous metals will usually produce a consistent and clear signal.

Example: Just as a doorbell has a distinct sound, each metal will have its unique ‘ring’ on the detector.

Now I’m going to share with you some tips and tricks that I learned over the past years by detecting various types of non-ferrous metal items. 

The below tips will make your metal-detecting journey a lot easy. I learned them by experience.

Zinc item found from ground when metal detecting
Zinc item found from ground when metal detecting

Tips For Detecting Non-Ferrous Metals

If you’re particularly interested in non-ferrous metals – those which do not contain iron, such as gold, silver, copper, and aluminum – you’re in for a treat.

These metals can be more valuable and historically significant. So, here are some pro tips to hone your non-ferrous metal detecting skills!

1. Know Your Detector Inside Out

Master Your Machine:
Every metal detector has its quirks. Spend time getting to know your device, understanding its signals, settings, and sounds.

Read the manual, watch tutorials, and practice in your backyard.

Example: Just as a musician becomes one with their instrument, you should become one with your detector.

The better you know it, the more efficiently you can use it.

2. Research is Your Best Friend

Historical Maps and Local Legends:
Study old maps and read up on local legends.

These can point you to areas where activities occurred in the past, increasing the likelihood of finding non-ferrous items.

Example: Imagine hunting in an area where an old market used to be – the chances of finding ancient coins (made of non-ferrous metals) are much higher!

3. Invest in Additional Coils

Different Coils for Different Finds:
Different coils are better suited for different tasks.

For detecting smaller non-ferrous items, like jewelry or coins, a smaller coil might be better.

For larger items or deeper searches, a larger coil might be more apt.

Example: Think of coils as lenses on a camera. Some are perfect for close-ups, while others are great for wide shots.

4. Don’t Ignore ‘Junky’ Areas

Where There’s Junk, There Might Be Treasure:
Areas with a lot of trash might seem unappealing, but they can sometimes yield the most surprising finds.

Non-ferrous metals might be hidden amidst the junk.

Example: It’s a bit like hunting for vintage items in a thrift store. Amongst the clutter, you might just find a rare gem.

5. Recognize the Sound of Non-Ferrous Metals

Tune Your Ears:
As you gain experience, you’ll start recognizing the distinct tones non-ferrous metals make.

For instance, gold has a soft, mellow sound, while aluminum can have a sharper tone.

Example: It’s akin to recognizing a friend’s voice in a crowd. With time, your ears will get attuned to the sounds of different metals.

6. Be Patient and Persistent

The Key is to Keep Going:
Metal detecting requires patience. You might not always find what you’re looking for immediately, but persistence can lead to rewarding discoveries.

Example: Think of it as fishing. You cast your line, wait, and even if you don’t catch anything immediately, the thrill is in the anticipation.

7. Practice Proper Digging Techniques

Dig Smart, Not Hard:
When you get a hit, make sure you dig in a way that doesn’t damage the potential find or the environment.

Use pinpointers to narrow down the exact location and always fill your holes.

Example: Imagine you’re excavating a delicate artifact. The way you dig can mean the difference between discovering an intact piece or just fragments.

8. Join a Metal Detecting Club

Share, Learn, and Grow:
Joining a club can offer invaluable advice, share locations, and even provide opportunities for group hunts.

Example: Just as photographers join photography clubs to enhance their skills, joining a metal detecting club can provide you with a wealth of knowledge and shared experiences.

Congrats folks! Now you know do metal detectors detect non-ferrous metals and how to detect them using the correct techniques.

Silver ring found from ground when metal detecting
Silver ring found from ground when metal detecting

Non-ferrous metals have been used by humans for over 10,000 years, long before the discovery and use of iron

www.twi-global.com

So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.

FAQs

Can all metal detectors identify non-ferrous metals?

While most metal detectors can detect non-ferrous metals, their efficiency varies based on the device’s capabilities and settings.

Why might someone specifically want to detect non-ferrous metals?

Non-ferrous metals, like gold and silver, can be more valuable, and detecting them can lead to both monetary and historical treasures.

Are non-ferrous metals harder to detect than ferrous ones?

Detection difficulty can vary; while ferrous metals might be more easily detected due to iron content, non-ferrous metals can be identified with tuned settings and experience.

Does ground mineralization affect non-ferrous metal detection?

Absolutely, high mineralization can interfere with readings, making it crucial for detectorists to adjust their device settings accordingly.

Should I use a specific coil size for non-ferrous metals?

Coil size can influence detection; smaller coils are often more sensitive to tiny objects like jewelry, while larger coils can search deeper and cover more ground.

How deep can metal detectors find non-ferrous metals?

Depth varies by detector and metal size, but some advanced devices can detect significant non-ferrous objects several feet underground.

Is beach hunting good for detecting non-ferrous metals?

Yes, beaches can be lucrative, especially for metals like gold from jewelry, but remember to use detectors designed for wet and salty conditions.

Do I need special permissions to hunt for non-ferrous metals?

In many areas, you’ll need permission or permits, especially on protected lands or historical sites. Always check local regulations before starting.

Did I cover all you wanted to know about: Do Metal Detectors Detect Non-Ferrous Metals?

In this article I’ve deeply discussed do metal detectors detect non-ferrous metals and how to detect them using suitable methods with tips and tricks.

Non-ferrous metals are conductive even though they are not magnetic. And the metal detector finds metals depending on electricity-based conductivity. So modern machines are able to find non-ferrous metals through their conductivity. It doesn’t depend on the magnetic field at all.

Furthermore, I’ve answered some frequently asked questions as well.

Hope you’ve learned everything you wanted to know about detecting non-ferrous metals using your metal detector.

With all the knowledge you gathered, it’s time to go treasure hunting! Make sure to follow the given guidelines to detect valuable treasures on your way of hunting!

Hi! I’m the treasure hunter and adventurer behind DetectingTreasures.com. I'm here to share my knowledge, inspire your adventures, and provide practical guides to help you succeed in your own treasure hunting journey. Read More...

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