Magnetic surveys are a geophysical exploration technique used to measure and map variations in the Earth’s magnetic field. The Earth’s magnetic field is not uniform, and changes in the magnetic properties of subsurface materials influence the overall field.
At Metatek, we specialise in geophysical exploration techniques, one of which is magnetic surveys.
Scientists, resource explorationists and researchers use magnetic surveys to gather valuable information about the underlying geological structures and properties of the Earth’s crust.
These surveys have applications in various fields, including mineral, oil and gas exploration, geothermal and other renewable resource exploration. Geology, archaeology and environmental studies.
When it comes to magnetic surveys, the choice of equipment depends on the specific survey requirements and the area being studied. Some commonly used equipment includes:
Magnetometers: These passive sensors measure magnetic variation. They are used within magnetic surveys to precisely assess the Earth’s magnetic field, local fields, and anomalies. These can be caused by magnetic properties of rocks or buried magnetic objects such as pipelines or even unexploded ordnance. There are many types of magnetometers including proton-precession and fluxgate magnetometers.
Airborne Magnetometers: Magnetic airborne surveys use airplanes, helicopters, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with magnetometers. These systems allow large-scale data acquisition over vast areas, making magnetic exploration quick and efficient. Metatek always acquires magnetic data during its surveys using a scalar magnetometer, specifically a split-beam Caesium Vapour total field magnetic sensor installed in a tail boom
Time Domain Electromagnetics (TDEM): Electromagnetic sensors actively pulse to stimulate conductive objects, making them detectable. TDEM systems reveal buried objects and hidden structures by analyzing electromagnetic responses.
Satellite-Based Surveys: Modern satellite-based magnetic surveys enhance global data collection. They provide insights into Earth’s magnetic field on a large scale but with less accuracy than ground or airborne surveys.
At Metatek, we provide magnetic surveys for exploration in various industries all over the world. If you are looking for a geophysical exploration partner, contact our team today.
