Operating Instructions EBEX 410 METAL DETECTOR SYSTEM 1 www.ebinger.org
Service address Ebinger Prüf- und Ortungstechnik GmbH Technology center Wiesbaum Vulkanstr. 14 54578 Wiesbaum Germany Tel: +49 6593 99894-0 Fax: +49 6593 99894-50 Email: info@ebinger.org Web: www.ebinger.org Trademarks The Ebinger logo is a registered trade mark of Ebinger Prüf- und Ortungstechnik GmbH. Names of other registered trademarks as follows: EBEX EFIS EPAD EPAS MAGNEX MAILEX PASSEX TREX UPEX UWEX All other trademarks used are the property of their respective registered owners. Technical Specifications Ebinger retains the right to change the design or technical specifications for product improvement without prior notice. The scope and timing of such changes are at the discretion of the manufacturer. Both minor and fundamental changes are possible, as part of our program or continuous product improvement. The information presented in this document refers to the complete product range. For inquiries of technical data of specific detector versions indicate the type designation and serial number. Copyright 2013, Ebinger Prüf- und Ortungstechnik GmbH BA-EBEX 410/05-13-E-Europe Unauthorized duplication and distribution of this manual or parts of it violates international copyright law and may require the permission of the copyright holder. Violation will be subject to legal prosecution and compensation claims. All rights for trademarks design and patent application reserved. Printed in Germany. 2
1. General Safety Information... 5 1.1 About this manual... 5 1.2 Product Safety Advice... 6 1.2.1 Technical failures... 6 1.2.2 Detectors with loudspeakers... 6 1.2.3 Battery or rechargeable battery operated devices... 6 1.2.4 How to clean the device... 7 1.2.5 Awareness whilst operating the product... 7 1.2.6a Application in EOD and BAC working environments... 7 1.2.6b Application in EOD and BAC Environments Continued... 8 1.2.7 Application in Archaeology Working Environments... 8 1.2.8 Good Guidance... 8 2. Product description... 9 2.1 Description... 9 2.2 Main characteristics... 9 3. Components, identification and operating elements... 10 3.1 Components... 10 3.2 Identification... 12 4. Application... 13 5. Principle of Operation... 14 6. Assembly... 15 6.1 Starting... 15 6.2 Selection of the search coil... 16 6.3 Depth range... 19 7. Power supply... 20 7.1 Battery change... 20 8. Maintenance... 21 9. Interference... 22 10. Technical Data... 23 3
READ INSTRUCTIONS IN CONJUNCTION WITH YOUR STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES (SOP S) BEFORE DETECTOR USE - READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY BEFORE ASSEMBLING, OPERATING OR CARRYING OUT MAINTENANCE ON THE DEVICE. KEEP THIS BOOKLET IN A SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE. - USE AND MAINTENANCE OF THE DEVICE. EBINGER CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE RESULTING FROM PROCEDURES, WHICH ARE NOT EXPRESSLY INDICATED, IN THIS MANUAL. - USING THE DETECTOR OTHER THAN SPECIFIED IN SOP S OR INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN A NON-DETECTION OF THE SEARCH TARGET. EBINGER WILL NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE RESULTING FROM IMPROPER USE OF ITS EQUIPMENT. - AS WITH ALL EQUIPMENT CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN TO AVOID DAMAGE AS A RESULT OF NON-INTENDED USE. - DO NOT WASH THE DEVICE WITH LIQUID DETERGENTS OR CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES. USE A SLIGHTLY MOIST, NON-ABRASIVE CLOTH FOR CLEANING. - READ THE CHAPTER ON MAINTENANCE CAREFULLY BEFORE CALLING THE EBINGER SERVICE. WHATEVER THE PROBLEM, ONLY TRAINED SERVICE PERSONNEL SHOULD SERVICE THIS EQUIPMENT. - DO NOT LEAVE BATTERIES (DRY OR A RECHARGEABLE TYPE) IN THE DEVICE DURING STORAGE OR FOR EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME. - DO NOT DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES IN GENERAL RUBBISH BINS; USE PUBLIC BATTERY COLLECTION FACILITIES AS PER LOCAL REGULATIONS, OR RETURN THEM TO AN EBINGER OFFICE. IF THE EQUIPMENT IS TO BE DISPOSED OF, REMOVE THE BATTERIES AND DISPOSE OF THEM SEPARATELY. WARRANTY CONDITIONS - EBINGER AGREES TO REMEDY ALL DEFECTS IN THE GOODS, WHICH ARISE FROM FAULTY MATERIAL OR POOR WORKMANSHIP BY EITHER REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF THE DEFECTIVE PART AT OUR FACTORY, PROVIDED THAT EQUIPMENT IS HANDLED, OPERATED AND MAINTAINED AS PER INSTRUCTIONS ISSUED BY US. THE PROVISION OF WARRANTY TO BE PROVED LOCALLY BY THE GUARANTEE IS VALID FOR A PERIOD OF MONTHS AFTER DELIVERY. www.ebinger.org
1. General Safety Information This chapter contains important safety information, which has to be observed when using the detector. 1.1 About this manual Important! Please read and observe the following instructions before prior to the use of the detector: You should carefully read the operation manual, before assembly, preparation for usage or operating the equipment. Follow the instructions of this manual for all operation steps with the device! EBINGER and its representatives are not to be held responsible for any damage caused by actions, which are not described in the manual. The detector should be used only in the manner as agreed and described in the manual! Warnings, cautions, notes, and tips contain useful or very important information for the user and are marked as follows: WARNING Warnings alert you to situations that could cause personal injury. These statements are to be considered absolute and to be adhered to! Caution - Cautions alert you to situations that could cause device damage or unrecoverable data loss. These statements are to be considered absolute and to be adhered to! Note Notes give you information where non-observance can lead to problems during the service of the device. Tip - Tips give you information where observation can assist in better use of the product. 5
1.2 Product Safety Advice 1.2.1 Technical failures WARNING Do not use damaged connection cables or elements due to danger of electrical shock! Replace defective or missing parts with original EBINGER spare parts as there is a danger of short circuit, overload, wrong connection and electrical shocks. Carry out only those maintenance steps, which are described in the handbook or for which you were especially trained by the manufacturer. Tip In case of malfunctions or technical problems read the relevant chapter in the maintenance and troubleshooting section before contacting EBINGER services. 1.2.2 Detectors with loudspeakers WARNING Permanent or short impact of high volume can permanently damage your hearing! Please observe the following warning note: Decrease the volume to low value especially when using a headset - before the equipment is switched on. After switching on turn the volume to a comfortable value. Switch off device or decrease volume to low value before putting on headset Keep sufficient distance between loudspeaker and your hearing. 1.2.3 Battery or rechargeable battery operated devices WARNING Batteries or rechargeable batteries can explode if used inappropriately! Therefore observe the following warnings: Use only batteries or rechargeable batteries of the type described in the operations manual. Watch correct polarity when inserting batteries. Never expose batteries to fire or high temperatures. Never try to charge, short circuit or dismantle dry batteries. A short circuit with rechargeable batteries can supply very high currents causing sparks or melting cables. Keep the connection points of batteries / rechargeable batteries clean and dry. Avoid contact with conductive materials. Caution Observe the following to avoid damage to the device: Remove all batteries from the device before long-term storage. Damage caused by leaking or deep discharge of rechargeable batteries is not subject to warranty! Before recharging of batteries ensure that the charger is connected to the appropriate voltage and frequency.
Note Observe regulations on disposal of used batteries. Each country may have particular national regulations. 1.2.4 How to clean the device Caution The device should not be cleaned with aggressive chemical substances to avoid damage to external components of the equipment. Use a damp cloth and tissue. 1.2.5 Awareness whilst operating the product WARNING Detectors, which are used in hazardous operations, should only be operated by qualified users in accordance with the respective international and/or national regulations and after equipment approval of expert personnel. WARNING Active metal detectors In case of medical implants check with manufacturer or seek expert medical advice on potential risks. WARNING Active metal detectors The equipment is a support tool for the location of metal objects. It preferably detects metal with good electric conductivity. Each detection signal can indicate a dangerous object. Very small objects, objects made from special alloys or certain wires may not be detectable. Ensure expert personnel check the appropriateness of the equipment before introduction into service. 1.2.6a Application in EOD and BAC working environments WARNING Equipment used in mine and battle area clearance must only be operated by trained personnel, which is qualified according to the relevant national and international standards. WARNING The equipment is a support tool for the location of metal objects. It preferably detects metal with good electric conductivity. Each detection signal can indicate a dangerous object. Very small objects, objects made from special alloys or certain wires may not be detectable. Some types of ammunition contain electromagnetic sensors. Despite successful testing with NATO services it cannot be excluded that the equipment interacts with specific fuses. Make sure expert personnel check the appropriateness of the equipment before introduction into service. 7
1.2.6b Application in EOD and BAC Environments Continued WARNING Passive metal detectors (Magnetometers). The equipment is a tool to support the location of metal. It only detects ferromagnetic objects. Non-magnetic metal will not be detected. Each signal can indicate unexploded ordnance. Objects with poor magnetic signature or subject to interference may not be detected. Make sure expert personnel check the appropriateness of the equipment before introduction into service. WARNING The equipment is a tool to support the detection of metal. Certain soils may interfere with a search operation i.e. due to their ferrous content or magnetic characteristics. Before introduction into hazardous operations expert personnel should evaluate if the equipment is appropriate. 1.2.7 Application in Archaeology Working Environments WARNING The equipment is a support tool for the location of metal objects. Each detection signal can indicate ammunition buried underground. Observe the national regulations and instructions on how to deal with accidentally found munitions. 1.2.8 Good Guidance German regulations and instructions on how to deal with unexploded ordnance found by accident may serve as guidance: All munitions found shall not be touched, its position shall not be changed, the site shall be clearly marked and precautions taken to avoid intervention of the munitions by third parties. Inform your local police or EOD service.
2. Product description This chapter contains information about the characteristics of EBEX 410. 2.1 Description The detector system EBEX 410 is a high sensitive metal detector system, equipped with numerous components to suit for various inspection tasks. The versatile nature of the system allows for more than 50 different equipment configurations. For detailed inspection and body search it can be assembled as a wand, using the small halo coil or the cylindrical probe. For land use extension rods and a large halo search head are supplied. To inspect areas which are difficult to reach an extension cable can be connected between the extension rod and the halo search head or cylindrical probe. 2.2 Main characteristics versatile detector kit for many different search tasks very high detection sensitivity dynamic operation mode Simple handling: single-button operation automatic compensation of steady background interference automatic operation and battery control sturdy design, shock-proof packing in aluminum transit case with liner water resistant 9
3. Components, identification and operating elements This chapter contains information about how to identify an EBEX 410. 3.1 Components The detector system EBEX 410 consists of the following components: 10 1 7 5 2 4 6 9 8 3 Pic. 1: Components of detector system EB 410 1 electronics cylinder with adjuster and battery compartment 2 extension rod 3 halo search head Ø 145 mm 4 halo search coil Ø 260 mm 5 cylindrical probe small Ø 22 mm 6 sensor connection cable 7 single sided head set 8 loudspeaker 9 plug-in battery charger and rechargeable battery 10 transport case, aluminium
Pic. 2: different search configurations of detector Pic. 3: Specific search and location with the cylindrical probe Pic.4: EBEX 410 in action (extended version with standard coil 260 mm) Pic. 5: EBEX 410 cylinder tracer checking mail 11
3.2 Identification The electronics box carries a label showing the detector type, serial number, and the equipment manufacturer s name. Pic. 6: Detector type and serial number
4. Application The connectors of all EBEX 410 components are designed to fit all sensors directly to the electronics unit or by means of the extension rods or the flexible cable. Due to the compact and user friendly design the detector can be operated without external boxes or disturbing cables. Operation and calibration of the EBEX 410 is made easy by a single counter sunk adjusting knob. The detector electronics and battery compartment are built into the electronic unit which is splash water and tropic proof. The EBEX 410 is a strong, shock proof and lightweight detector which meets the Forensic Investigation Technology quality requirements, the detector is stored and transited in an aluminum case. Pic. 7: EBEX 410 in transit case 13
5. Principle of Operation The EBEX 410 detector system operates after the highly efficient EB damping system. In 1971 this working principle was applied already for a cartridge detector used in forensic police work. Its function is described hereafter: An oscillator in the detector electronics sends an AC signal to the search coil. The coil transmits an alternating electromagnetic field inducing eddy currents into metal targets which come within the detector coil s reach. The eddy currents create a secondary field around the detected metal object and absorbs energy from the detector electronics reducing the amplitude of the transmitted signal. This change in amplitude is electronically measured, processed and converted into an audio detection signal. Primary field (search coil) Secondary field (target) Pic. 8: Working principle of the EB 410 detector The primary field has to cross the distance between search coil and target. The secondary field has to run distance back this again. This means that the signals have to run the distance twice through the corresponding media (air, water, soil, wood or brickwork). After the end of the transmission pulse the receiver is activated between 2a and 2b depending on the selected position of the delay adjuster knob (O 250 μsec) The detector will evaluate the remaining response signal (2a/2b to 3) and convert the signal into an audio and galvanometer indication. Large conductive objects (i.e. metal) respond with longer and stronger response signals than small objects. Salt water or mineralized soil shows a fairly short echo in comparison to metal objects.
6. Assembly Select and assemble components according to the detection task. For combination examples see point 3. General rule for the choice of the appropriate search head /coil: for small metal objects small search heads (minimum amount of metal mines, cartridges and projectiles); for larger metal objects large search heads (UXO, weapons etc). For search inside buildings and for a thorough inspection after small metal objects select the cylinder tracer due to good resolution between several metal objects. The electronics, carrying rods, extension cable and the coils are connected by co-axial threads. The rear socket at the electronics cylinder takes the headphone plug or the loudspeaker. Pic. 9: Screwing the electronics cylinder onto a detector coil 6.1 Starting Fit battery to the battery compartment as per pict.7 and rotate countersunk adjuster to put the device into operation. Short control clicks audible every 3 seconds in the speaker or headphone indicate that the detector is ready for use and that the battery is fully charged. 15
6.2 Selection of the search coil The different search coils of EBEX 410 make it possible to optimize the detector to the task. Each coil has its typical range of targets and jobs to which it will fit best. This range is mainly predetermined by the corresponding alternating magnetic fields of the targets. The cylinder tracer probe provides a very focused and compact field which is most sensitive to very small targets. This field concentration gives a strong indication of targets close to the probe and reduces interference from surrounding metal objects. The cylindrical probe eases a pinpointing of targets. It is appropriate to inspect narrow areas. It provides a very good resolution and a precise indication. Its maximal detection range on large targets is approx. 30 cm. The search coil Ø 145 mm should be applied for the location of small targets such as i.e. cartridges or projectiles to be found in open ground. Due to its small diameter it has a concentrated electromagnetic field with a maximum detection range of approx. 1 m. This also means that it can be affected by large metal surroundings close to the search coil if the detector is adjusted to high sensitivity. It can also be used in rooms to check persons on weapons or to check suspicious mail, lost property and objects suspected to contain explosives. Penal institutions use the coil to detect hidden cell phones, one-way shavers etc. and swallowed metal objects. The detection range factor of the small ring coil is approx. 3,4 in air, meaning that an iron disk of same diameter as the coil may be indicated up to the 3,4 fold distance, i.e. 145 mm X 3,4 = 49,3 cm. The depth range of the coil is about 30 to 40 cm. Pic. 10: Range diagram of the detector EB 410 with search coil dia. 260 mm The diagram above shows the max. theoretical detection range (dotted line) and the limits of the detection depth range in the ground (steady line) to explain the efficient range of the detector and where it works most efficiently (hatched surface)
The detection range was tested with several metal discs of different sizes which had a detection surface of 10 to 500 % of the search coil surface to establish the shown diagram. It becomes evident that a target size increase beyond 400 % does not cause a remarkable increase in detection range. The limits of detection range of the detector are approx. 80 cm to 90 cm in favourable search conditions with hardly any interference. The coil Ø 260 mm has the largest detection range on metal objects of some size. Range factor is approx. 3.4. This max. detection range is applicable to a sensitivity check in air. This value is of little importance for a real search operation as it does not represent realistic conditions with a wide range of possible sources of interference. It is necessary to deduct about 10 20% from this value to get closer to realistic values. Rotating the countersunk adjuster switches the EBEX 410 into operation. The detector requires approx. 2 minutes for warm up. Max. sensitivity is achieved with the adjuster tuned precisely below the audio alarm threshold. For delicate jobs it is advantageous to set the detector to a low-frequent pulse-like basic audio signal. Metal objects cause a frequency change of the basic signal what can clearly be perceived. The EBEX 410 has dynamic detection characteristics requiring a movement between the detector coil and a metal object to provide the indication signal. When the coil is held steadily next to a metal object the indication will decay to no signal or to the preset basic signal after a short delay. The consistency regulating and compensating time depends on the size and distance of the metal object. The advantage of this dynamic mode of operation is the fact that the detector automatically adjusts itself to the prevailing electric location and ground conditions. Also background metal construction can be compensated for if the detector operates at a steady distance to them (i.e. parallel to railways or fences). The search is conducted by systematic scanning of the surface. Large areas shall be subdivided into search lanes and grids. Keep detector coil as close as possible to the ground. If the area to be inspected does not allow access for the large search coil or if it proves to be difficult to scan or reach (bushes, roots, hollows) use small coil or probe. A sudden audio signal indicates that a metal object is detected. The signal frequency rises as the object is approached. When the highest frequency is perceived the object will be found under search head center. Always inspect search area in a go and return scan! The audio signal intensity and geometry depends on the size, position and depth of the detected metal object. A short but strong audio signal starting and breaking off on a small area indicates a small metal object on or near the surface. Whenever the indication increases slowly over a larger area the device either detected a deep buried large metal object or non-cooperative ground. 17
Indication Pic. 11: Detection of large objects Indication Pic. 12: Detection of various objects A Indication of a small shell buried horizontally B Indication of a small shell buried vertically in the ground C Indication of a small metal object D Indication of a metal object buried horizontally Experienced user will successfully conclude size, depth and location of metal objects As mentioned, the EBEX 410 is a versatile tool which suits various roles and terrains. In addition, due to its very high sensitivity it can be used for forensic police work and in law enforcement. For this field of application a modified version is available. For the use in the field of law enforcement the large ring coil can be replaced by a mid-sized coil of Ø 200 mm.
6.3 Depth range In detection technology depth range is a difficult issue because detection results do not only depend on the operator s concentration and perceptive faculty but also on the respective working conditions at the work site. Technically the depth range of a detector - no matter of what design - depends on the size, position and material of the target objects as well as of the local interference. For this reason reproducible detection ranges can only be quoted for sensitivity checks in air. Picture 5 shows a diagram of range of the EBEX 410 detector with search coil Ø 260.mm. The upper dash-dotted line shows the max. detection range in air. The lower line shows the depth range that can be expected in favorable search conditions without interference. It is advisable to deduct 20 % of the maximum detection range to get realistic values. 19
7. Power supply Battery voltage is monitored by audio clicks. One click every 3 seconds indicate that battery fully charged. As battery voltage drops the click frequency will increase. One click per second indicates that the battery approaches the end of its service life and has to be exchanged (rechargeable Ni-MH battery needs recharging) soon. As soon as voltage drops below nominal value a continuous alarm of 100 Hz will start which can not be cancelled by the sensitivity knob. Detector must not be used any longer. 7.1 Battery change Pic. 13: battery change Unscrewing the rear cover from the electronic cylinder gives access to the battery compartment (see picture 7). Watch for correct polarity as shown on sticker in the battery compartment when inserting a new battery. Alkaline batteries are to be preferred due to better capacity and storage life. The detector can also be operated on a rechargeable Ni-MH accumulator which can be recharged by the supplied 220 V plug in charger. A 110 V plug charger is available on request. Check for correct mains voltage! Recharging with EBINGER supplied chargers takes approx. 4-5 hours. See the instructions of the manufacturer of the accumulator. Avoid overcharging and low discharging of the accumulator.
8. Maintenance The detector should not be packed if dirty or damp. REMOVE BATTERY BEFORE STORAGE OF EQUIPMENT. DISCHARGED BATTERIES CAN LEAK AND DAMAGE TH BATTERY COMPARTMENT It is advisable to keep all coaxial screw connections dry and clean. Lubricants should be avoided at threads. Apply Kontakt60 only. In case of malfunction first check the battery, its polarity and contacts. For trouble shooting and fault identification interchange components with those from an operational detector. The detector should be repaired by authorized persons only. WARRANTY EXPIRES IN CASE OF INEXPERT INTERVENTION; IMPROPER OPERATION OR USE. THE DETECTOR MUST NOT BE STORED WHEN STILL SWITCHED ON. RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES NEED A REFRESHER CHARGE ONCE PER MONTH! The detector is a splash-water proof design and can be used in bad weather, rain or wet grass. It can be used in shallow water but is not designed for underwater use. For underwater use a pressure water proof equipment (UWEX 722) is available. 21
9. Interference In the field of detection technology interference is an important factor. It often depends on interference whether a detection task can be successfully finished or not. Interference means magnetic effects of the ground, contamination with metal fragments or scrap and even adverse ground conditions impairing the detection result. Severely mineralized ground, magnetic stones and road surfaces count among magnetic, non co-operative ground effects. Basalt rocks may cause interference by a negative reading (basic audio signal dropping tone below "0" when approaching and increasing once the sensor leaves the target area). It is often possible to distinguish between interfering signals and a detection signal by a positive / negative indication. Metal makes the audio alarm rise, magnetic ground makes it drop. To reduce magnetic interference use the coil in an angled (approx. 30 ) position towards ground. High metal impact areas can slow down an operation significantly especially if small metal targets have to be located. In this case every signal has to be checked.. Detection work inside rooms can be rendered difficult by the presence of metal constructions. In such case use small head or cylindrical probe. The detector detects all conductive media inclusive salt water impregnated ground. In such case use EBINGER PI systems. AC fields from electric power lines generally do not influence the detection results.
10. Technical Data Dimensions (W x H x D) Electronics cylinder approx. 35 X 370 mm Extension rod approx. 20 X 485 mm Cylinder tracer approx. 23 X 300 mm Diameter of search head approx. 145 and 360 mm Length of detector approx. 520 to 1550 mm Transit case approx. 460 X 350 X 175 mm Weight (mass) Operating Weight approx. 605 to 1456 g depending on detector version Weight with case approx. 6,8 kg Power supply 9 V dry battery IEC 6 LR61 or Ni-MH PP3 style accumulator 9V Charging time approx. 4-5 hrs Operation time at 20 C approx. 20-25 h (6 LR 61) approx. 5-7 h (Ni-MH battery) Temperature range approx. -20 to + 55 C 23
EBINGER-Technology centre Wiesbaum EBINGER Prüf- und Ortungstechnik GmbH Headquarter: Hansestraße 13 51149 Cologne Germany Tel. +49 2203 97710-0 Fax +49 2203 36062 E-Mail: info@ebinger.org www.ebinger.org EBINGER Prüf- und Ortungstechnik GmbH Sales International: Hansestraße 19 51149 Cologne Germany Tel. +49 2203 95900-0 Fax +49 2203 95900-20 E-Mail: info@ebinger.org EBINGER Prüf- und Ortungstechnik GmbH Technology centre Sales Germany/Benelux: Vulkanstraße 14 54578 Wiesbaum Deutschland Tel. +49 6593 9989-40 Fax +49 6593 9989-450 E-Mail: eifel@ebingergmbh.de Copyright 2013 EBINGER Prüf- und Ortungstechnik GmbH, Cologne. Copyrights, design rights and trademarks: All reproduction, copying or publication of documents, software and designs owned by EBINGER Prüf- und Ortungstechnik GmbH whether in whole or in part requires written consent from EBINGER Prüf- und Ortungstechnik GmbH. Photos: EB archive, G. Schiefer. UWEX, UPEX, TREX, EBEX, EPAD, EPAS, EFIS, MAGNEX, MAILEX, PASSEX are registered trademarks of EBINGER Prüfund Ortungstechnik GmbH, Cologne.Errors & Omissions Excepted. Subject to the T&Cs of EBINGER Prüf- und Ortungstechnik GmbH. Printed in Germany - BA-EBEX 410/05-13-E-Europe