When performing installation operations with operating structures, there is a risk of damage to the internal wiring. Cable routes, communication networks, and even pipelines are a very common filling of walls and ceilings in residential buildings and public buildings. Therefore, do not rush to create holes or perform any other kind of processing in structures that can potentially contain engineering channels. A metal detector, which detects foreign inclusions in the niche of building structures through sensors, will help to insure against possible wiring irregularities.
General information about wiring metal detectors
This type of tool relates to measuring instruments used in construction, household and industrial applications. Its main function is to find hidden wiring in the wall, floor coverings, ceiling niches and other structures. Since in most cases we are talking about identifying metal elements that conduct current, such detectors can be considered primarily as an electrician's tool, which can be involved in installation work. Moreover, multifunctional devices of this type also make it possible to determine humidity indicators and noise levels in the area where electrical wiring is used. Such an examination, in particular, helps to identify the causes of short circuits in the walls.
Separately, it is worth noting the variety of materials that the detector can analyze. That is, not the target metal components of the wiring, but what the basis of the structure is formed from. It can be not only concrete with brick, but also wood, plastic and the same metal. For an accurate examination, you should correctly approach the choice of instrument, since the metal and hidden wiring detector is on the market in a large assortment. Models differ in functionality and basic performance indicators.
Professional and household detectors
Entry-level models are designed to perform simple household tasks in the private sector. For example, if you need to drill a hole for laying the same pipeline, it will not be superfluous to initially scan the wall for electrical wires. Such models are designed to work with thin walls and partitions, so for large-scale events with the alteration of massive structures, it is better not to use household metal detectors, the prices of which, however, are quite attractive - about 3 thousand rubles. A professional scanner of this type can cost 20-25 thousand, but its functionality is much wider. As practice shows, representatives of high-end detectors are able to detect metal parts in the walls at a depth of about 50 cm. In this case, the device detects steel rods at a level of 80 mm.
Appointment classification
Metal can be different, it differs in quality characteristics, and may also have special performance properties. So, for example, in the same wiring it is important to take into account the magnetization of the material. There are devices that support the function of such an indication, but in household models, as a rule, such an option is absent.
There are also special detectors that allow you to find fittings. Such a locator not only notifies the user about the presence of the target object in the wall, but also determines the size of the rod in the form of a diameter and its depth. But mostly builders use a universal metal detector, which with the same efficiency can detect nails, electrical wires, fittings, pipes, etc. in the walls.
Reviews about the model SKIL DT0551
The device belongs to the universal and is used by users from various fields - from professional organizations to households. In general, device owners report satisfactory performance in terms of analysis accuracy. The model works with copper, steel, distinguishes ferrous and non-ferrous metals under voltage. That is, the device can be considered both as a full-fledged electrician tool, and as an assistant to the builder-installer. Although the device does not belong to the higher price segment, the manufacturer implemented many modern options in it.
Users themselves especially appreciate the ability to automatically calibrate and quickly display information on an electronic display. Thanks to the indicators, the operator can use a metal detector to determine the characteristics of the material, which is also important in the process of performing critical events.
Reviews on the model Bosch GMS 120
German measuring instruments occupy almost leading positions in their segment. The GMS 120 model demonstrates the high performance of metal detectors, which is confirmed by users. As the operating practice shows, the device with high accuracy determines and fixes the location of metals with different characteristics in both concrete and wooden structures. At the same time, the Bosch metal detector is provided with a simple interface, the convenience of which is emphasized by both professionals and amateurs. True, simplified control does not at all limit the operational capabilities of the device. The user has several modes of operation that allow you to separately scan gypsum boards, metal and conductive elements.
TESTBOY TB 26 model reviews
In this case, we consider a multifunctional tester, specifically focused on working with network connections. The device is used mainly by professionals to verify the correctness of connections, breaks and short circuits, as well as in determining the length of the tracks. Despite the wide possibilities of operation, users note a small weight of the device. The calibration options provided with the metal detector are also highly appreciated. The reviews indicate that the high-precision adjustment of the device allows you to determine the characteristics of the wiring hidden in the wall and other structures with maximum accuracy.
How to choose the best model?
First of all, the scope of the device is highlighted. Defining a common goal will help you find out which segment is best addressed. So, for irregular home use of the device in order to identify typical wiring, budget models worth 3-5 thousand are suitable. For work in professional construction, it is more advisable to prefer a metal detector with high performance. This applies to the depth of wiring detection, and to the capabilities of the device to determine the characteristics of detected objects.
Conclusion
If the first generations of building metal detectors performed only the general functions of sensors detecting material with specific characteristics, then modern devices give extensive survey results. The level of occurrence, the properties of the material and its dimensions - these are the main data that professional metal detectors provide at the output. Prices for such devices are also rather big - the average modification costs 10-15 thousand. But even entry-level devices are not deprived of functionality. At a minimum, the budget model has several scanning modes, which involve the use of special survey parameters for various objects - from building reinforcement to network cables.