Ground-Based Magnetic Surveying in Kazakhstan

Ground-based magnetometric surveying

Ground-based magnetic surveying measures variations in the Earth's magnetic field over a specific area. These variations reflect differences in the magnetic properties of rocks and help reveal structures that are not always visible at the surface.

The method is used during prospecting and exploration stages to identify faults, geological contacts, intrusive bodies, and other zones of interest. Geophysical anomalies are correlated with geological, geochemical, and drilling data.

SMART GEOPHYSICS conducts ground-based magnetic surveys featuring GPS positioning and in-field data quality control.

MethodProfile-based and area-wide magnetometric surveying
EquipmentGSM-19W magnetometers with GPS positioning
QualityMonitoring of coverage completeness and field measurements
ResultMagnetic field maps, anomaly maps, and a technical report

Applications of magnetic surveying

We tailor the survey program, profile spacing, and grid density to the scale of the geological objective, site conditions, and required level of detail.

Anomaly detection

Identifying areas with contrasting rock magnetic properties for subsequent geological verification.

Structural refinement

Tracing faults, contacts, and linear structures, including those beneath loose deposits.

Drilling preparation

Ranking of prospective zones for detailed exploration and drilling.

Detection of man-made objects

Locating underground utilities and metal objects at survey and construction sites.

We correlate the results with geology, electrical prospecting, geochemistry, and drilling data.

Where ground magnetic surveying is used

Exploration

Rapid identification of magnetic anomalies and structural elements across the survey area.

Geological model

Refining the location of contacts and structural features of the site.

Target verification

Correlating magnetic data with geology, geochemistry, and drilling results.

Detailed surveying

Surveying promising areas prior to subsequent operations.

Equipment and survey parameters

We use GSM-19W Overhauser-effect magnetometers with integrated GPS for precise spatial referencing of measurements.

Magnetometer

GSM-19W, Overhauser effect

Positioning

Integrated GPS

Survey layout

Profile or grid survey

Grid spacing

Determined by the geological objective

Quality control

Data verification during fieldwork

Precise grid parameters, scope, and timelines are determined following an analysis of the site, existing data, and project requirements.

Workflow

Stage 1

Planning

Defining the geological objective and analyzing baseline data
Selecting the method and configuration
Work program: profiles and observation points

Stage 2

Fieldwork

Mobilization of crew and equipment
Site reconnaissance and survey
Measurements with in-field quality control

Stage 3

Processing and interpretation

Data processing and inversion
Correlation with geology, geochemistry, and drilling data
Maps, cross-sections, and models

Stage 4

Reporting

Technical report with conclusions
Recommendations for the next stage
Data delivery in the agreed format

What the client receives

Magnetic field maps

Maps of the observed magnetic field featuring isolines and a ΔT (nT) scale.

Anomaly map

Identified anomalous zones and their priority for geological verification.

Magnetic field profiles

ΔT plots along survey lines, highlighting magnetic anomalies.

Technical report

Methodology, results, interpretation, and recommendations for future work.

Ground-based magnetic survey projects

The company conducts geophysical surveys across Kazakhstan. A work program is tailored to each site, taking into account the geological objective, site accessibility, existing data, and requirements for final deliverables. Only approved facts and materials are used when publishing specific projects on the website; client and site details can be anonymized if necessary.

Frequently asked questions about magnetic surveys

What does a ground-based magnetic survey reveal?

The survey reveals magnetic anomalies and helps trace faults, rock contacts and other structures. We interpret the results alongside geological and drilling data.

What deliverables does the client receive?

Field and processed data, magnetic-field and anomaly maps, line profiles, interpretation, and a technical report with recommendations. We agree on the deliverables in the scope of work.

What determines the scope and cost of the work?

The survey area, line and station spacing, terrain, accessibility, and required deliverables. We prepare the work plan and cost estimate after reviewing the available data.

Can we start without a finalized technical specification?

Yes. A description of your objective, site boundaries and available geological information is enough to start. We can help prepare the survey program and terms of reference.

How is survey resolution determined?

By line and measurement-point spacing, taking into account the expected target size, the survey objective and site conditions.

In which regions is the work performed?

We work across Kazakhstan. Mobilization time and logistics are confirmed after reviewing the site.

What needs to be prepared before work begins?

A description of the objective, site boundaries (coordinates or a map/sketch), existing geological materials and drilling data, and requirements for the output format.

Ground-based
magnetic surveying

Ground-based magnetometric surveying