Established 1986
Specialising in shallow and archaeological geophysics
Fluxgate Gradiometer
Fluxgate gradiometers have been developed specially for the detection of buried archaeological remains. The instrument measures the local vertical gradient field by using two fluxgate sensors 0.5m or 1m apart. They have been used since the mid 1970s and are now used routinely in archaeological evaluation. The instrument is extremely sensitive being able to detect changes as small as 0.5nT.
Collection of data is speedy with up to 4ha being able to be investigated in one day with readings being taken at 1m by 0.25m intervals. The data are downloaded in the field and results can be viewed almost instantly.
The interpretation of fluxgate gradiometer data can be used to position excavations in the ‘best’ place, or even to re-design proposed developments, thereby reducing excavation costs.