Detecting a metallic object through solid metal

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenge of detecting a metallic object through a 1/4" thick steel plate. Participants explore various methods and considerations for reliably sensing the presence of the object, which may be in close proximity to or touching the plate. The context includes practical applications and potential solutions involving different technologies.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the possibility of isolating the 1/4" plate from ground and asks for the dimensions of both the plate and the object.
  • Another participant provides a sketch and details that access for measurement will be from the bottom, emphasizing the need to detect when the rectangular piece lays flat.
  • There is a question about the types of metals involved and whether the "flap" section is hinged.
  • One participant suggests that knowing the specific metal alloys is crucial for determining the appropriate detection method.
  • It is proposed that if the object is also steel, a magnetic field could be used for detection, though this might exert force on the object.
  • Ultrasound is mentioned as a potential detection method, with a link to further information.
  • A participant asks if the piece could complete a circuit when it comes down, implying a possible electrical detection method.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a specific solution, as multiple methods are proposed and the effectiveness of each may depend on the materials involved and the specific setup.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the need for specific information about the metal alloys and the potential impact of lubrication oil on detection methods. The discussion also highlights the uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of proposed solutions given the conditions described.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals working on industrial applications involving metal detection, engineers exploring sensor technologies, and those interested in experimental methods for detecting objects through barriers.

busarider29
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I have looked at various off-the-shelf industrial sensors for detecting objects but I cannot find anything that will detect metal through metal. I have a metal plate that is 1/4" thick. I need to detect a metal object on the other side of the metal plate. The metal object on the other side of the plate will be ~0.5mm from touching the plate, and in some cases may even touch the plate. Is there any solution that could reliably detect the metal object on the other side of my 1/4" thick steel plate?
 
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Can the 1/4" plate be isolated from ground? How big is it? How big is the other metal?
 
Attached is a rough sketch of side view. Let's say depth of the sketched components is ~1 inch. I will not have access for measurement from the top, only from the bottom. I want to be able to detect when/if the rectangular piece comes down and lays flat. Both pieces are metal, although not the same type or density. The top piece could in some cases touch the bottom piece, but not in all cases. Lubrication oil will be present between and around both pieces.
CrossSection.jpg
 
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busarider29 said:
I want to be able to detect when/if the rectangular piece comes down and lays flat. Both pieces are metal, although not the same type or density.
What are the 2 metals ?
Is the "flap" section hinged at one end ?
 
busarider29 said:
Is there any solution that could reliably detect the metal object on the other side of my 1/4" thick steel plate?
Yes. There are many solutions.
Unfortunately you will need to know the metal alloys involved to decide which method to use.
Are you able to specify the different types of metal alloys or are they fixed ?
 
If the object is also steel, it could be detected using a magnetic field, but this would put some force on it.
 
Can you have the piece complete a circuit when it comes down?
 

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