Bulletin of Electrical Engineering and Informatics

Vol. 13, No. 5, October 2024, pp. 3100~3111

ISSN: 2302-9285, DOI: 10.11591/eei.v13i5.7613  3100

Development and implementation of a low-cost metal detector

device

Wael A. Salah1, Arafat A. A. Shabaneh2

1
Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering and Technology, Palestine Technical University-Kadoorie, Tulkarm,
Palestine
2
Department of Telecommunications Engineering, College of Engineering and Technology, Palestine Technical University-Kadoorie,
Tulkarm, Palestine

Article Info ABSTRACT

Article history: Metal detectors contribute to safety, protection, and detection in a variety of
disciplines by locating and identifying metal items, playing an important role
Received Sep 27, 2023 in which the metal detectors appear in security, archaeology, and industrial
Revised Feb 29, 2024 applications respectively. The necessity for identifying different types of
Accepted Mar 20, 2024 metals and the need for a high level of security system led to the need of
affordable and sensitively metal detecting devices. In this paper, the
magnetic pulse induction (PI) technology is used in the development of
Keywords: metal detectors. The primary control circuit is utilizing an Arduino controller
which allows the input signal’s to be controlled and monitored using a
Classification liquid-crystal display (LCD) and mobile application. A voltage sensor for
Identification measuring the analog output from the circuit and capturing the information
Low-cost to the Arduino by employing a Bluetooth module. The Arduino controller
Metal detector estimate the percentage of the signal’s strength and display it on the LCD.
Pulse induction Simultaneously, the signal could be sent to the mobile application through
Bluetooth in order for the application to display the strength in the form of a
spectrum of colors. The results of testing applied to the proposed prototype
reveal that the system is running with a satisfactory accuracy and sensitivity.
This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA license.

Corresponding Author:
Wael A. Salah
Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering and Technology
Palestine Technical University-Kadoorie
Yafa Street, Tulkarm, Palestine
Email: wael.salah@ptuk.edu.ps

1. INTRODUCTION
Nowadays, the use of a smart and highly sensitive devices could provide and easier life as well
could highly save time and efforts of end users. Detection and identification of different materials is highly
required duty at which it had been carried out for different purposes. These aims could include inspection for
specific material, adulteration detection, classification of matières and others. In this research the focus
would be mainly on a device that could be used for metals type of materials.
Metal detectors are electronic devices that detect the presence of metal items in the surroundings.
They operate by creating a magnetic field and evaluating how that field changes when it interacts with
metallic things. Metal detectors are commonly employed in a variety of applications such as security
screening, archaeology, treasure seeking, and industrial settings [1]. Metal detectors are frequently used in
airports, government buildings, and public events for security screening to identify potentially harmful
objects, such as guns or explosives, that may be concealed on a person’s body or in their possessions. They
contribute to improved security by alerting security personnel to the presence of metal objects. Metal

Journal homepage: http://beei.org

Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf ISSN: 2302-9285  3101

detectors are useful equipment in archaeology and treasure hunting for identifying buried relics or metallic
objects of historical or archaeological interest. By locating buried valuables or archaeological sites, they aid
in the discovery and preservation of cultural heritage. Metal detectors are used in manufacturing and
production lines in industrial settings to prevent metal contamination in products. They aid in the assurance
of product quality and safety by detecting any unintentional metal objects that may have entered the
manufacturing process [2].
The use of metal detectors is generally restricted to amateurs and people who are interested in
obtaining minerals that are buried underground; however, this does not mean that they do not have any
significant applications or uses [3]. For example, security personnel use them to conduct inspections of
people entering locations that require safety and security, such as airports, tourist areas, hospitals, and
government buildings. In addition to its use in prospecting and searching for the presence of minerals below
at varying depths and dimensions, this tool can also be used to measure the size of an area [4].
Mineral exploration is the process of exploring through the rocks in the area for any indications that
they may contain any type of mineralization. Mineral exploration is conducted with the intention of finding
deposits of minerals and rocks that may be employed to fulfill the requirements placed on society in terms of
its resource requirements [5]. The process of exploring for minerals can be as straightforward as prospecting,
using straightforward techniques like gold panning, or it can be highly complex, requiring the use of
advanced tools for data collecting and analysis [6]. A metal detector is an electrical device that can detect the
presence of nearby metals. A metal detector can be used to locate anything made of metal or containing metal
that is buried underground [7]. Metal detectors are typically mounted using a portable device with a sensor
that may look for metals in the ground or other objects [8].
Metal detection and inspection is one of the most frequently duty aimed for metal detector devices.
The basic principle based for their operation based on the reflected magnetic field from specific metal. The
strength of the magnetic field that the metal object produces is used by the metal detector to assess the depth
to which the metal object is buried in the earth [9]. By comparing the magnetic field strength to the depth of
an item, the device is able to ascertain both its position in space and its distance from the surface of the Earth.
Figure 1 displays the detection that is observable at various depths [10].

Figure 1. The detection at different depths

The magnetic field causes eddy currents in metal objects, which produce their own magnetic fields
when they interacts with it. The detector’s circuit is altered as a result of these secondary magnetic fields’
interactions with the primary magnetic field the detector produces. The size, composition, strength, and
frequency of the electromagnetic field, as well as the conductivity of the surrounding soil, all affect the
relationship between the strength of the magnetic field and the depth of a metal.
As a result of industrial development and an increase in the use of metals in numerous industries and
different facets of life, there is a greater demand for metals and detecting technologies. The metal detector
debuted for the first time in 1881 [11]. For medical purposes, it was used to find a bullet inside the corpse of
the American President during his murder. Up until today, there have been a number of improvements made
to metal detectors [12].

Development and implementation of a low-cost metal detector device (Wael A. Salah)

3102  ISSN: 2302-9285

Modern electronic metal detectors have advanced rapidly in order to identify buried metal landmines.
In the 1980s, the required theoretical foundations were developed to further the metal discrimination idea. Over
the past decade, advancements in microelectronics, microcomputers, signal processing, and electromagnetic
modeling have resulted in more advancements. Metal detectors for hobbyists employ modern signal processing
microcomputers to analyze buried target signatures and distinguish coins and jewels from clutter. The landmine
and unexploded ordnance (UXO) research community has utilized these advancements to create sophisticated
detection and discrimination devices [13].
Unlike traditional metal detectors, which need people to go through them, an advanced metal
detection system using a wide-area metal detection (WAMD) sensor can screen big crowds of people more
effectively. This sensor system is made up of a spatially distributed metal detector and a video surveillance
system that is designed to scan an area continuously rather than individually inspect each person [14]. These
days, a great number of establishments have reached the point where the implementation of metal detector
systems has become an absolute need. The presented system may be put into action remotely and does not
require a touch metal detector to be brought into contact with the body of a suspect; rather, it relies on the
wireless transmission of electromagnetic waves [15].
Robotic devices had many applications in various areas [16], [17]. The design and development of
sensor technologies and robotic device for the detection of land mines is presented [18]. Presented results had
shown that the proposed approach effectively operated and the system is able to detect landmines. The goal
of the study is to create a conductive material detector for use in security, food, and pharmaceutical
industries. According to test results, the device can identify six different conductivity materials, including tin,
copper, zinc, aluminum, and stainless steel. Three seconds is the typical response time for detecting
conductive material [5]. One of the fundamentals of robotics is the metal detector robot, which is efficient
compared to labor-intensive, inefficient manual methods. In addition to having complete control over the
robot, the proposed approach can also create rules and permissions for the robot operator, record and archive
printed reports and navigated outcomes, and store all of this data in a separate database [19].
In many regions of the world, waste management has turned into a significant challenge. The
majority of people are unaware of the enormous quantity of waste that is generated from the growing
population, despite the fact that the population is still growing [20]. When waste management is first
implemented, the metal content of the waste will most likely need to be separated, particularly if it is planned
that the waste will be transformed into some sort of energy [21]. This clearly highlight how such devices
could be utilized in different displumes where such duties are remarkable.
The above aforementioned application of metal detectors made high inspiration in the development
of the proposed device in this research. In light of the fact that its prices are so much higher in comparison to
the cost of purposed prototype, one of the most important aspects of this project idea is its creative potential,
as well as its feasibility on the regional market. In addition to this, it illustrates how we can build our local
industry, which will assist us in developing our local economy, adding additional industrial processes, and
lowering the rate at which we import a variety of different types of products. The purpose of this study is to
construct a device for detecting metal which linked up with a Bluetooth module in order to communicate
with a mobile application in addition to extending the range over which objects can be detected. In the
following section the details on which the developed device based on will be discussed and analyzed.

2. METHOD
Metal detectors are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and configurations, ranging from
portable devices to walk-through gates and conveyor belt systems [22]. They make use of a variety of
technologies, such as very low-frequency (VLF), pulse induction (PI), and beat frequency oscillation (BFO),
in applied to measure and distinguish between various kinds of metals [23]. These key technologies differ
primarily in a range of aspects, primary among them being cost, depth, sensitivity, discrimination, frequency
range, and sensitivity.

2.1. VLF technology

The technique used in VLF metal detectors most usually is the magnetic induction balancing
approach. The transmitter and receiver coils are two separate coils used in this technology. The transmitter
coil is an external coil through which electricity flows both clockwise and counterclockwise. The internal coil
is used to capture and amplify the signal that is reflected off of metal objects, as opposed to the receiver coil,
which is external [24].
The magnetic field that is generated by the alternating current that is flowing through the transmitter
coil is perpendicular to the coil and the polarity of the magnetic field will change in response to changes in
the direction of the electric current. When a magnetic field passes through and is exposed to conductive

Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf, Vol. 13, No. 5, October 2024: 3100-3111
Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf ISSN: 2302-9285  3103

material, it produces a weak magnetic field, and the polarity of the magnetic field produced by the body is
different from the magnetic field generated by the transmitter coil. The process is very similar to how
payments and withdrawals are made [25], [26]. The interaction of the reflected magnetic field with the
conductive material located beneath the surface of the ground results in the generation of an alternating
electric current. This increased electric current is received by the control box, and it is then used by the
central processing unit (CPU) to assess the signal and show the data [24].

2.2. PI technology
Michael Faraday created electromagnetic induction in 1831, and this approach makes use of the
concept of electromagnetic induction. The PI technology has numerous practical applications in the field of
electrical technology, including transformers and certain other electrical devices [26]. Magnetic induction
pulse technology is one of the valuable techniques for finding metal because the devices that employ it can
operate in situations where other methods cannot. This makes magnetic induction pulse technology one of the
useful methods for finding metal. Through the use of this method, a single coil can perform the functions of
both a sending coil and a receiving coil at the same time [24].
The PI technology employs a single coil that serves as both a sending coil and a receiving coil
simultaneously, is based on the delivery of electric current in the form of brief, strong pulses in a circular
wire coil. The lithium-ion batteries generate an electric current. Each pulse generates a tiny magnetic field,
and when the pulse concludes, the polarity of the magnetic field is reversed, causing the magnetic field to
collapse and generate an electrical signal that causes the electric current to surge abruptly. This electrical
signal induces an electric current to flow through the coil; the resulting electric current is known as the
reflected pulse and has a duration of no more than 30 microseconds [24]. This process is repeated at a rate of
100 beats per second, but this can be increased to 250 beats per second or even up to 1,000 beats per second,
the additional magnetic field produced by the metal object will lengthen the reflected pulse when the
magnetic pulse collapses and results in it being elongated, and this will result in it being elongated. The VLF
and PI types of metal detectors are displayed in Figure 2 [26].

Figure 2. VLF and PI type metal detector

Figure 3 shows a simplified schematic of the basic pulsed-EMI method. A current loop transmitter is
put near the metal item, and a steady current flow in the transmitter is maintained for a long enough time to
allow turn-on transients in the object to dissipate. The loop current is then cut off. According to Faraday’s
law, the lowering magnetic field generates an electromotive force in the metal item. This force causes eddy
currents to form in the metal. Because there is no energy to sustain the eddy currents, they begin to decay at a
certain decay time that is controlled by the metal’s size, shape, electrical and magnetic properties. The decay
currents generate a secondary magnetic field, and the time rate of change of the field is monitored by a
receiver coil located at the sensor. If a conductive object is shown to have a unique time-decay response, a
signature library of conductive items can be constructed. When a buried metal object is discovered, it is
time-decay signature can be compared to those in the library, and the object can be classified if a match is
found. Classification distinguishes between potentially dangerous and nonthreatening objects [13].

2.3. BFO technology

One of the easiest approaches for metal detecting is the beat frequency technology of oscillatory
pulses. At the search end, a large coil is utilized, while a smaller coil is housed within the control box. Each

Development and implementation of a low-cost metal detector device (Wael A. Salah)

3104  ISSN: 2302-9285

oscillator coils generate thousands of pulses per second [24]. The coil emits radio waves, which the receiver
in the control box carries and converts into an audible signal that we perceive as pulses due to the varying
frequencies of the two coils. During the process of detection, an electric current flow through the enormous
coil, converting the magnetic field produced by the metal into radio waves. These radio waves have a
different frequency than the waves in the control box coil and create audible-frequency pulses [24]. BFO
detectors are appropriate for general-purpose metal detection tasks, such as looking for coins, jewelry, or
artifacts in parks, beaches, and other low-mineralization areas. BFO is considered as the most basic and
affordable type of metal detectors. BFO detectors are still capable of successfully detecting metal objects
even though they do not have the powerful functions and distinguishing abilities of VLF and PI detectors.

Figure 3. Basic PI metal detection scheme

2.4. Metal detector operation

The transmitting coil is located in the center of a standard metal detector, while the two receiving
coils are placed on either side. A differential amplifier is attached to the receiving coils. The presence of
foreign metal fragments is discovered when the magnetic field produced in the transmitting coil is perturbed
by metal objects by altering the amplitude and phase of the differential amplifier’s output voltage.
A reference study was used to investigate the link between output amplitude and phase and the
electromagnetic properties of metal objects [27]. A simultaneous resistivity and permeability measurement
(SRPM) technique was created to assess the electrical and magnetic properties of a spherical sample by
vectorially measuring the impedance difference between two circular solenoid coils, one with and one
without the sample. Using a spherical sample to estimate the vector voltage induced in the receiving coil by
the metal object simplifies the research. Experiments with brass, aluminum, copper, and iron objects
demonstrated the correctness of the new formula. The unique formula described in this study is regarded as a
useful guide for the construction of metal detectors, which previously relied on the analytical experimental
technique [27]. Figure 4 displays the block diagram of a typical metal detector.
Metal-detector performance depends heavily on the sensor head. Errors in coil arrangement within
the head might lead to detector performance reduction. The effect of coil placement errors on detector
sensitivity is demonstrated using electromagnetic modeling of typical very-low-frequency detector heads. As
long as the bucking coil ‘tracks’ the receive coil, the required error corrections can be kept to a minimum
[13]. The two-channel metal detector, comprised of two sets of perpendicularly oriented sensor antennae, is
proposed to increase metal sensor’s detectable size from mm to cm scale, whereas conventional metal
detector is only designed for mm or cm scale detection. In the cited study, the relative properties of the two
metal detecting sensor channels were investigated, and the interference impact of two sensor channels
operating simultaneously was detailed [28].
The metal detection channel’s detectable sensitivity to moving ferrous spheres with diameters as
small as 0.7 mm was shown by its sensitivity scale, which is measured in millimeters. Excitation frequency
of 50 kHz and improved sensitivity distribution. The metal detecting channel with its sensitivity measured in
centimeters demonstrated a more even distribution of sensitivity together with the flexibility required for

Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf, Vol. 13, No. 5, October 2024: 3100-3111
Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf ISSN: 2302-9285  3105

future modular assembly. The interference caused by the simultaneous operation of two sensors led to a
lower output response, but the detection range was still useful despite the interference. As a result, it was
possible to run two sensors, each of which had a distinct sensitivity range, simultaneously. Furthermore, it
was possible to extend the detection range from mm scale to cm scale while still being within the bounds of
what was practically acceptable. Figure 5 shows the conventional antenna set of metal detection sensor [28].

Figure 4. Block diagram of a typical metal detector

Figure 5. Conventional antenna set of metal detection sensor

The VLF, PI, and BFO are three common technologies used in metal detectors. Each has unique
qualities and benefits. These approaches differed in concept, sensitivity and accuracy of detection,
classification of distinct mentals, and cost of various instruments [29]. The VLF employs two coils-a
transmitter and a receiver-to send and receive radio waves. The transmitter creates a continuous
electromagnetic field with a low frequency, while the receiver detects interruptions in this field induced by
metal objects nearby. The PI detectors generate a magnetic field by sending short pulses of high-voltage
current through a coil or antenna. The detector detects the decay duration of the generated magnetic field
when the pulse ceases. Metal objects disrupt this field, producing a signal for detection. BFO detectors use
two coils, one for emitting and the other for receiving a continuous radio frequency (RF) signal. When the RF
signal contacts a metal item, a “beat” or audible change in frequency is produced, which can be sensed by the
user [30].
In conclusion, the decision amongst VLF, PI, and BFO metal detectors is contingent upon the
particular needs of the metal detecting task. VLF detectors are renowned for their discrimination powers,

Development and implementation of a low-cost metal detector device (Wael A. Salah)

3106  ISSN: 2302-9285

whereas PI detectors excel at penetrating deep into the earth. BFO detectors are frequently chosen due to
their cost and ease of use, making them ideal for beginners and enthusiasts. Environmental circumstances and
budget concerns also play a crucial influence in selecting the most suited technology. Table 1 summarized
the main differences between each technique.

Table 1. Metal detections techniques

Technology Application Depth and sensitivity Classification capabilities Price False alarms
VLF Discrimination Moderate Superior Affordable Moderate
PI Detection Excellent Moderate Expensive Low
BFO Detection Limited Limited Low-cost High

3. SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION
Even as metal detectors differ in appearance, their operation is largely similar. Some metal detectors
may have minor differences, such as having additional headphones or having the control device installed at
the bottom of the shaft and the monitor screen installed at the top, so that the metal detector consists of four
basic components that work identically, which are the shaft, stabilizer, control box, and search coil [24]. The
shaft of the device It is the part to which the rest of the components are attached. It also connects the control
box and the detector, and its length is typically adjustable so that it can be tailored to the height and comfort
level of the individual who will be using it. The stabilizer is the component of the device that makes it simple
to operate, performs the function of an auxiliary shaft, stabilizes and balances the device, and eliminates
vibrations when the gadget is being used in the search process.
The control box, sometimes known as the device’s “brain”, is where the electronic circuit, control
keys, settings, CPU, and internal speakers can all be found. The system is made up of its components, which
are separated into the main board, the operating board, and the monitoring board. The operating board is
where all of the electronic components that are required to run the system and determine whether or not
metals are present simply by listening to the sound coming from the speaker are located. In terms of the
monitoring board, it is comprised of the Arduino, the liquid-crystal display (LCD) screen, and the Bluetooth
module. Figure 6 shows the main designed board which contains a group of major electronic parts.

Figure 6. The main and monitoring boards

Microcontrollers are finding more and more applications, not just in manufacturing processes but
also in a wide variety of other fields and aspects of daily life. This advancement of microcomputers in smart
remote monitoring and controlling applications through the use of wireless and wired techniques, which are
frequently utilized these days [31]. The ATmega328 serves as the brains behind the little, all-inclusive, and
breadboard-friendly microcontroller known as the Arduino Nano (Arduino Nano 3.x).
A voltage sensor device is utilized for the purpose of carrying out the task of voltage measurement.
In addition, voltage sensors are capable of measuring the voltage in a variety of different methods. The LCD
is a device that both displays information about the system and receives data from the microcontroller. A
Bluetooth module is a piece of hardware that serves as an interface between two electronic devices. It
facilitates the wireless connection of any two electronic gadgets using Bluetooth low energy and creates a
standard for the exchange of data between the devices. Utilizing this equipment allows for the successful

Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf, Vol. 13, No. 5, October 2024: 3100-3111
Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf ISSN: 2302-9285  3107

establishment of a link between the mobile device and the system. While the application that was developed
is called “metal detector” and the application itself is programmed by making use of the code, respectively.
The search coil is designed in the form of a flat circular coil and it is positioned at the base of the
constructed gadget that is moved above the ground. In addition to this, it functions similarly to an antenna in
that it creates a magnetic field in order to detect nearby metal objects. As a general rule, the diameter of the
search coil is directly proportional to the amount of depth it can detect. Because the field generated by the
large coil is larger and deeper than the field generated by the small search coil, it is the best choice when
searching for large and deeply buried metals such as antiquities. The field generated by the large coil also
increases as the diameter of the coil increases.
The proposed design of the prototype had been built to realize the metal detector. Several
considerations had been taken in to account in terms on the hardware design and end user requirements. The
system components successfully assembled and found to be satisfactory operated. In the following section
the results of testing and operating of the proposed design is presented.

4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The final results of the developed and implemented prototype of metal detector device is shown as
in Figure 7. The control box of the developed device which considered as the brain of the device. The control
box includes: the electronic circuit, control keys, settings, processor, and internal speakers as disputed in
Figure 8.

Figure 7. The search coil

Figure 8. Metal detector machine and control box

The shaft that it is the part to which the rest of the parts are connects the control box and the
detector. Furthermore, it is usually adjustable in length to suit the length and comfort of the person when
using it. The stabilizer of the device. This part of the device, which makes it convenient to use and acts as an
auxiliary shaft. In addition, the stabilizes acts as a balancer of the developed device and reduces the
vibrations during the search process.
Figure 7 shows the search coil which is located at the tip of the developed device. This part is move
on the surface of the ground. Therefore, it is act as an antenna that generates a magnetic field to senses the
different type of metal objects.
This technology uses a single coil that acts as a sending and receiving coil at the same time as. The
idea of this technique is to send an electric current in the form of short and strong pulses in a coil consisting
of circular wire. Each pulse generates a small magnetic field and when the pulse ends, the polarity of this
field is reversed, and the magnetic field collapsed, forming an electrical signal, for a period of time, which
leads to a large rise in the electric current [26].

Development and implementation of a low-cost metal detector device (Wael A. Salah)

3108  ISSN: 2302-9285

The electrical signal causes an electric current to pass through the coil, this current generated by an
electric signal is called as the reflected pulse, and its duration is very short, not exceeding 30 microseconds.
This process is repeated at a rate of 100 beats per second, and this number can be increased to reach
250 beats per second or increases to 1,000 beats per second according to the manufacturer [26]. When the
detector is above a metal object, the electric pulse produces a magnetic field towards the object.
The coil receives a pulsing current, which then creates a magnetic field, which is depicted in blue as
shown in Figure 9. Eddy currents are electric currents that are caused by the induction of a magnetic field
into a metal by the movement of a coil's magnetic field across the surface of the metal. The magnetic field is
induced into the coin as shown in Figure 9. As a result, the eddy currents form their own magnetic field,
which is depicted in red. This produces an opposite current in the coil, which in turn triggers a signal
indicating the presence of metal [26].

Figure 9. The direction of the magnetic field of coil and of eddy current

When the magnetic pulse collapse and causes the reflected pulse, the additional magnetic field
generated by the metal object will increase the duration of the reflected pulse. The functionality of the
proposed design is clarified as in the block diagram which can be seen in Figure 10. The relationship between
the distance in centimeters and the voltage levels is depicted in Figure 11. In addition, when the detecting
distance rises, the voltage decreases, as depicted in Figure 11. Moreover, the curve exhibits a high degree of
linearity of R2=0.96.

Figure 10. Block diagram of PI metal detector

Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf, Vol. 13, No. 5, October 2024: 3100-3111
Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf ISSN: 2302-9285  3109

Figure 11. Distance verses voltage

Figure 12 proves the relationship between the distance in centimeters and the values appears on the
LCD screen. Besides, as the detection distance increases the value of the degrees out of 100 is decreased as
shown in Figure 12. Likewise, this prove that the developed detection machine is able to sense up to 65 cm
for different type of metal.

Figure 12. The relationship between detection distance and values on LCD screen

Table 2 shows a comparison with other metal detectors, as clarified in the table, the proposed design
had shown a good and satisfactory distance detection compared to other devices. Furthermore, the developed
device was able to detect objects effectively through the air and soil medium. The key constraint associated
with the produced suggested device is primarily the detectable distance, which can be considered an
advantage when compared to other devices, as shown in Table 2.

Table 2. Comparison with other metal detectors

Operation Detectable
Reference Coil parameters Objects detected Medium Technology
frequency (Hz) distance (cm)
[32] a 35×35 cm 1k 69-89 Mines Air PI
∼180 μH 1.5 Ω
[33]  11.5, 50 cm, 0.6 mm 80 k 40 Tin Can Air PI
[30]  7 cm, 42 μH, 175.4 k 20 small piece of Air BFO
0.056 Ω metal
Proposed device 27,0.5 mm 140 65 piece of metals Air Soil PI

Development and implementation of a low-cost metal detector device (Wael A. Salah)

3110  ISSN: 2302-9285

5. CONCLUSION
By locating and identifying various metal objects, metal detectors play an important role in the
fields of security, archaeology, and industrial applications, respectively. This enables metal detectors to
contribute to increased safety and protection while also facilitating the discovery of previously unknown
objects. In this research, an Arduino controller is used to link the main control circuit for the purposes of this
investigation. The input of the signal controlled and monitored through an LCD and a mobile application.
The analog output of the circuit measured by a voltage sensor, and this information then be transmitted to the
Arduino through the utilization of a Bluetooth module. The detector’s electric pulse creates a magnetic field
that targets the metallic object above it. The metal object’s magnetic field lengthens the reflected pulse as the
magnetic pulse collapses. Pulsing electricity creates a magnetic field in the coil. Eddy currents form in metal
as the coil’s magnetic field passes across it. The developed metal detector device estimates the metal’s depth
using the metal object’s magnetic field. The device calibrates magnetic field strength with depth to locate and
distance the object from Earth. The device can be utilized in various applications, including detecting land
mines, firearms, airport security, archaeology, and treasure hunting. The findings of the evaluations carried
out on the prototype indicated that the system operates with an accuracy and sensitivity that are up to the
standards expected.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors like to express their gratitude to Palestine Technical University-Kadoorie for facilitating
and support of this research.

REFERENCES
[1] Z. Guo et al., “Detection of heavy metals in food and agricultural products by surface-enhanced raman spectroscopy,” Food
Reviews International, vol. 39, no. 3, pp. 1440–1461, Apr. 2023, doi: 10.1080/87559129.2021.1934005.
[2] J. A. McNeil, “The metal detector and faraday’s law,” The Physics Teacher, vol. 42, no. 6, pp. 369–373, Sep. 2004, doi:
10.1119/1.1790347.
[3] P. P. Silvester and D. Omeragic, “Sensitivity of metal detectors to spheroidal targets,” IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and
Remote Sensing, vol. 33, no. 6, pp. 1331–1335, 1995, doi: 10.1109/36.477191.
[4] L. Baobin and Z. Wei, “The research of metal detectors using in food industry,” in Proceedings of 2011 International Conference
on Electronics and Optoelectronics, IEEE, Jul. 2011, pp. 43–45, doi: 10.1109/ICEOE.2011.6013421.
[5] S. Yamazaki, T. Negishi, H. Nakane, and A. Tanaka, “Simultaneous measurement of electric and magnetic properties of a
spherical sample,” IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 473–477, Apr. 1996, doi:
10.1109/19.492770.
[6] M. Brighton and M. J. English, “Calculation of optimum spacing for a three coil axially symmetric metal detector,” Electronics
Letters, vol. 29, no. 10, pp. 838–839, May 1993, doi: 10.1049/el:19930560.
[7] K. R. Blay, F. Weiss, D. A. Clark, G. de Groot, M. Bick, and D. Sen, “Signal processing techniques for improved performance of
a SQUID-based metal-detector,” IEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity, vol. 19, no. 3, pp. 812–815, Jun. 2009, doi:
10.1109/TASC.2009.2017857.
[8] M. S. Sharawi and M. I. Sharawi, “Design and Implementation of a low-cost VLF metal detector with metal-type discrimination
capabilities,” in 2007 IEEE International Conference on Signal Processing and Communications, IEEE, 2007, pp. 480–483, doi:
10.1109/ICSPC.2007.4728360.
[9] W. S. Hua, J. R. Hooks, W. J. Wu, and W. C. Wang, “Development of a polymer based fiberoptic magnetostrictive metal detector
system,” in 2010 International Symposium on Optomechatronic Technologies, IEEE, Oct. 2010, pp. 1–5, doi:
10.1109/ISOT.2010.5687341.
[10] I. V. Bryakin, I. V. Bochkarev, V. R. Khramshin, and E. A. Khramshina, “Developing a combined method for detection of buried
metal objects,” Machines, vol. 9, no. 5, May 2021, doi: 10.3390/machines9050092.
[11] I. T. McMichael, E. C. Nallon, V. P. Schnee, W. R. Scott, and M. S. Mirotznik, “EBG antenna for GPR colocated with a metal
detector for landmine detection,” IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Letters, vol. 10, no. 6, pp. 1329–1333, Nov. 2013, doi:
10.1109/LGRS.2013.2239604.
[12] “Metal detector market by application, product and geography-forecast and analysis 2023-2027,” Technavio. [Online]. Available:
https://www.technavio.com/report/metal-detector-market-industry-analysis (Accessed on 13-02-2024).
[13] C. V. Nelson, “Metal detection and classification technologies,” Johns Hopkins APL Technical Digest (Applied Physics
Laboratory), vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 62–67, 2004.
[14] C. V. Nelson, “Wide-area metal detection system for crowd screening,” E. M. Carapezza, Ed., Sep. 2003, doi: 10.1117/12.484846.
[15] A. Ahmed and H. Sarwar, “Simulation and implementation of a wireless metal detector with variety of flexible responses-a solution to
extensive security threats,” Bulletin of Electrical Engineering and Informatics, vol. 5, no. 3, pp. 324–333, Sep. 2016, doi:
10.11591/eei.v5i3.541.
[16] A. A. Sneineh and W. A. Salah, “Modelling of a high-speed precision robot for microelectromechanical systems bonding process
application,” Maejo International Journal of Science and Technology, vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 51–69, 2018.
[17] W. A. Salah, B. A. Zneid, A. Abu_Al_Aish, and M. Nofal, “Development of smart and portable controllable syringe pump system for
medical applications,” Journal of Engineering and Technological Sciences, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 300–312, Aug. 2023, doi:
10.5614/j.eng.technol.sci.2023.55.3.7.
[18] A. I. N. Alshbatat, “Behavior-Based approach for the detection of land mines utilizing off the shelf low cost autonomous robot,”
IAES International Journal of Robotics and Automation (IJRA), vol. 2, no. 3, pp. 83–92, 2013, doi: 10.11591/ijra.v2i3.2038.

Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf, Vol. 13, No. 5, October 2024: 3100-3111
Bulletin of Electr Eng & Inf ISSN: 2302-9285  3111

[19] H. A. Kadhim, N. S. Ali, and D. M. Abdulsahib, “Management and archiving system for metal detection robot using wireless-
based technology and online database registry,” International Journal of Power Electronics and Drive Systems (IJPEDS), vol. 10,
no. 1, pp. 219–229, Mar. 2019, doi: 10.11591/ijpeds.v10.i1.pp219-229.
[20] S. H. Yusoff, S. Mahat, N. S. Midi, S. Y. Mohamad, and S. A. Zaini, “Classification of different types of metal from recyclable
household waste for automatic waste separation system,” Bulletin of Electrical Engineering and Informatics, vol. 8, no. 2, pp.
488–498, Jun. 2019, doi: 10.11591/eei.v8i2.1488.
[21] W. A. Salah et al., “Analysis of energy recovery from municipal solid waste and its environmental and economic impact in
Tulkarm, Palestine,” Energies, vol. 16, no. 15, p. 5590, Jul. 2023, doi: 10.3390/en16155590.
[22] C. V. Nelson and T. B. Huynh, “Spatial scanning time-domain electromagnetic sensor: high spatial and time resolution signatures
from metal targets and low-metal content land mines,” in Detection and Remediation Technologies for Mines and Minelike
Targets VII, Aug. 2002, pp. 766–775, doi: 10.1117/12.479150.
[23] A. Rerkratn, W. Petchmaneelumka, J. Kongkauroptham, K. Kraisoda, and A. Kaewpoonsuk, “Pulse induction metal detector
using sample and hold method,” in International Conference on Control, Automation and Systems, pp. 45–48, 2011.
[24] S. Thomas, “Searching for answers: a survey of metal-detector users in the UK,” International Journal of Heritage Studies, vol.
18, no. 1, pp. 49–64, Jan. 2012, doi: 10.1080/13527258.2011.590817.
[25] F. H. Thompson, “Coil arrangement for search head of a metal detector,” 1981
[26] H. Citak, “Pulse induction metal detector: a performance application,” IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, vol. 48, no. 6, pp.
2210–2223, Jun. 2020, doi: 10.1109/TPS.2020.2996182.
[27] S. Yamazaki, H. Nakane, and A. Tanaka, “Basic analysis of a metal detector,” IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and
Measurement, vol. 51, no. 4, pp. 810–814, Aug. 2002, doi: 10.1109/TIM.2002.803397.
[28] K. N. Choi, “Two-channel metal detector using two perpendicular antennas,” Journal of Sensors, vol. 2014, pp. 1–11, 2014, doi:
10.1155/2014/412621.
[29] C. Bruschini, B. Gros, F. Guerne, P.-Y. Pièce, and O. Carmona, “Ground penetrating radar and imaging metal detector for
antipersonnel mine detection,” Journal of Applied Geophysics, vol. 40, no. 1–3, pp. 59–71, Oct. 1998, doi: 10.1016/S0926-
9851(97)00038-4.
[30] A. M. Jawad, H. M. Jawad, and G. C. Hock, “Design of a beat frequency oscillator metal detector,” IOSR Journal of Electronics
and Communication Engineering, vol. 9, no. 2, pp. 56–62, 2014, doi: 10.9790/2834-09215662.
[31] W. A. Salah and B. A. Zneid, “Evolution of microcontroller-based remote monitoring system applications,” International Journal
of Electrical and Computer Engineering (IJECE), vol. 9, no. 4, pp. 2354–2364, Aug. 2019, doi: 10.11591/ijece.v9i4.pp2354-
2364.
[32] B. Kim, J. W. Yoon, S. Lee, S. Han, and K. Kim, “Pulse‐induction metal detector with time‐domain bucking circuit for landmine
detection,” Electronics Letters, vol. 51, no. 2, pp. 159–161, Jan. 2015, doi: 10.1049/el.2014.3895.
[33] J. Clarke, “Build an induction balance metal locator,” Geotech, pp. 1-8, 1994.

BIOGRAPHIES OF AUTHORS

Wael A. Salah currently is a full Professor at the Electrical Engineering

Department, Palestine Technical University-Kadoorie, Tulkarm, Palestine. Dr. Salah received
his Ph.D. and M.Sc. degrees in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Universiti Sains
Malaysia (USM) in 2007 and 2012 respectively. He received Bachelor degree in Electrical
and Computer Engineering (ECE) from Palestine Polytechnic University (PPU) in 2001. He
received the Excellent Publication Award “Saggar Sanjun” for the years 2009 and 2010 from
Universiti Sians Malaysia. In addition, he received Best Research Award, Palestine Technical
University-Kadoorie yearly since 2018-2024. His research interests include: renewable
energy, clean energy, energy management, energy utilization, energy efficiency, power
electronics, and electric drives. He has published more than 65 research papers in peer
reviewed reputed journals and conferences. He is a recognized board member for several
international journals and conference proceedings in the field of electrical, electronics, energy
and power engineering. He is also a recognized reviewer of highly distinguished journals
published by: IEEE, Elsevier, and other well-known publishers. He is a senior member of the
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), US, a member of the Jordanian
Engineers Association (JEA) and a member of Arab Engineers Association (AEA). More
details on research and publications can be found on professional networks profile:
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Wael-Salah-3. He can be contacted at email:
wael.salah@ptuk.edu.ps and waelsalah.dr@gmail.com.

Arafat A. A. Shabaneh is an Associate Professor at the Department of

Communication Technology, College of Engineering and Technology, Ţulkarm, Palestine.
He received his BS degree from Palestine Polytechnic University, Palestine, in 2006. He
completed his MS degree in communication engineering at International Islamic University
Malaysia, Malaysia (2011). In 2015, he completed his Ph.D. degree at Universiti Putra
Malaysia, Malaysia, in the area of optical sensors based on nanometers. He worked at the
Centre of Excellence for Wireless and Photonic Network, Universiti Putra Malaysia. His
research interests are optical sensors, optical communication systems, wireless communication
system, and nanotechnology. He can be contacted at email: a.shabaneh@ptuk.edu.ps.

Development and implementation of a low-cost metal detector device (Wael A. Salah)