In a recent blog, we talked about the role of magnets in land surveying and mapping; this week, we’re covering the fascinating world of hydrographic surveying. Similar to land surveying, the goal of hydrographic surveying is to determine the depth of the water and the topography of the bottom of say, a lake or ocean. The civil engineers who partake in these surveys use similar tools as they would above ground — in this case, a magnetometer with a magnetic sensor. 

Hydrographic Surveying with Magnets

Reasons why an individual or a business may require hydrographic surveying include the following: 
  • To build a dock or boat marina
  • Dredging for resources, evidence, or to clear an area
  • Planning for waterways (e.g., diverting water)
  • Locating wrecked ships
  • Locating pipelines
The teams of people working on an underwater survey are trying to determine the layout in detail. It would be unwise to start an underwater project without a survey that tells you what you will encounter.  In addition to a magnetometer, another important tool for surveyors is sonar — single beam or multi-beam. These use sound waves to bounce off any objects and determine the distance. The magnetometer on the other hand locates and pinpoints any fixed or moving ferrous metal by using a magnetic sensor.  The most simple version of a magnetic sensor is made of wires coiled around a permanent magnet, like a neodymium bar magnet. For any professional looking for the right magnet for their magnetometer, a custom solution would likely be best, which would allow you to specifically choose things like dimensions, pull strength, and coating.  

Let Apex Magnets Help You on Your Next Project

Whether you're a hobbyist, a civil engineer, or a business owner, we’re always working on ways our customers can use our magnets and other products. Sign up for our newsletter to get these stories and more sent straight to your inbox each month.