When you are digging or trying to find an underground item, you need a tool capable of finding metal objects and/or utilities. Magnetic locators can offer this functionality for iron and steel items. Pipe and cable locators are similar but work using electromagnetic radiation rather than magnetic fields. The following 10 items are some of the best locators on the market.
Magnetic Locator – A Must-Have Tool
As the name implies, magnetic locators are used to find and pinpoint magnetic field. The most common application is to find iron or steel objects that are buried underground. With the right sensitivity, a locator can find the exact location of a magnetic pole.
Compared to locating items by digging and/or using survey plans, a locator is a faster and easier option. It may be used to help relocate nails used by land surveyors. Schonstedt, Pipehorn and CST/Berger are well-known brands that make some of the finest locators on the market.
The GA-52Cx from Schonstedt is one of the most rugged and dependable locators you can buy. It provides five levels of sensitivity to ensure that you find what you are looking for without passing over it. There are only two controls on the body, making it easy to use with one hand. It also makes it more dependable. If you will be doing a lot of surveying, this should be a serious contender on your list.
The Maggie is an opportunity to get the best of two worlds. It features the sensitivity of the GA-52Cx and the one-handed design of the GA-92XT, Schonstedt’s two flagship models. It has an LCD screen with a bar graph showing polarity. It is rated IP54 for dust and water resistance. The modular construction and durable design help make this another top choice from Schonstedt.
The 800HL from Pipehorn is a capable pipe locator. It has two frequencies: 480 kHz and 9kHz. This makes it easier to locate utilities in both congested areas and at a distance. Users can change between frequencies with a single switch flick. It has a handle for easy one-handed use. This can be used for coated pipes, un-energized power lines, fiber, concentric neutral and many other utilities.
The GA-72Cd is the most popular choice for UXO and demining applications. It is the brand’s most versatile locator for magnetic fields. Like many other Schonstedt products, it has a very simple set of controls to make it as easy to use as possible. It features a screen showing a polarity graph, gain level and battery status.
This ultra-compact locator is Schonstedt’s most portable product. It telescopes so that it can be easily transported in a small package. Additionally, it features a special handle that makes it easy to operate with one hand, pressing the buttons with your thumb. This is an especially good choice for anyone who has to travel a lot for work.
This pipe locator from Schonstedt is a top-of-the-line tool. It has three frequencies (512 Hz, 33 Hz and 82 kHz) as well as 50/60 Hz passive and 512 Hz sonde detection. Plus, the transmitter is only four pounds, and the receiver is only three. This is a very compact and lightweight tool. Like many other Schonstedt models, the REX is IP54 rated for dust and water resistance.
The Pipehorn 800H is a lot like the 800HL described above. However, it uses a single frequency of 480 kHz. It can work down to a depth of 18 feet. The strong ABS housing and watertight construction help make this a very durable tool for use in the field.
The MT202 series locator is a high-quality device with strong construction and a large LCD screen for easy operation. The digital bar graph readout makes it easier than ever to locate items. Plus, the MT202 has the ability to block out a source of magnetic interference (for example, a nearby fence). It can locate larger objects at a depth of up to 15 feet.
If you need to locate both utilities and magnetic fields, this combination set is a great choice. It features the compact but powerful REX and the highly-effective and portable GA-92XTd. The entire package can fit into a custom shoulder bag. Both locators are described above.
This no-nonsense locator is an effective and reliable tool for finding ferrous objects underground. The Magna-Trak 101 has easy-to-use control knobs for adjusting sensitivity and volume. With a strong but lightweight aluminum tube and strong sensors, this is a magnetic locator you can always rely on when you need it.
Find the Right Locator for Your Needs
Engineer Supply has a broad selection of magnetic and utility locators including the 10 above and more. We also have many other surveying tools and many other supplies. When you need high-quality and dependable tools for construction, industrial, surveying and other applications, make Engineer Supply your first choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Can I Order a Magnetic Locator?
You can order a magnetic locator from Engineer Supply. We have a selection of top brands including Schonstedt, Pipehorn, Sitepro and CST/Berger. We also have accessories, replacement parts, cases and more to make your locating experience easier. When you need to find something underground, turn to Engineer Supply for the tools.
Which Is the Best Magnetic Locator?
This depends on your requirements. For example, the Schonstedt GA-92XTd is a great choice for anyone who wants a highly portable device. Conversely, anyone who needs an especially rugged locator may want to use the GA-52Cx. The Pipehorn 800HL is a great pipe locator with two frequencies, but not everyone needs that versatility.
What Is a Utility Locator?
A
utility locator is used for finding pipes and cables underground based on electromagnetic frequency rather than a magnetic field. Typically, they work by putting a frequency into the pipe or cable that needs to be located (from an already known point) and then tracing it using a receiver.
What Types of Work Require a Locator?
Magnetic and pipe/cable locators are commonly used in a few types of work. Land surveyors often mark areas using magnetic nails that may need to be located again using one of these devices. Additionally, anyone needing to dig may want to find any underground utilities, manhole, tanks and other hazards. Finally, when working on pipes or cables, it is important to trace their full paths.
How Do You Use a Magnetic Locator?
Sweep the area to find magnetic fields that could be your target. As you get closer, adjust the gain to focus in on a single magnetic pole. You can identify the ends of objects and their orientation by watching the polarity of the reading change. Orienting the device in different ways can help you to map the full shape of your target.