3 Key Tools Required for Successful Archeological Excavation
The discovery of a new site is often big news for archeologists since they take it as an opportunity to learn something new about the region's past. As such, archeological excavations must be conducted meticulously to ensure that no critical information is lost. It means that artifact retrieval must be performed carefully to prevent extensive damage, especially to delicate pieces. Therefore, archeologists need the best tools for successful excavation. This article highlights the most common equipment in this regard.
Bulk Scraper
Archeologists refer to this as their secret weapon, and for good reason. Before excavation begins, a site is divided into equal grid units — the partitions act as a guide for excavators. Typically, an excavating team starts removing dirt vertically along grid units, creating bulk walls, which must be straight to ensure that everything within each section is collected. If your grid units have slanting walls, the chances are high that you will miss important artifacts. Only a bulk scraper can produce perfectly straight, flat, vertical walls.
Rubber Bucket
It is arguably the most underappreciated tool in an archeological excavation site. While a rubber bucket's only role is to move soil away from an excavation site to a dirt pile, it is crucial. An archeological site can only be clean and precise if dirt is removed continuously, and the small rubber buckets perform this function well. Moreover, since archeologists do not know how brittle or soft the artifacts on site are, they should be careful of what they place on the ground. Using metallic or plastic buckets is not a feasible option because they have rigid undersides and can damage artifacts. On the other hand, rubber buckets are soft and do not pose a risk to delicate antiques during excavation.
Archeological Brushes
Excavation brushes vary in size, and a single site can have numerous types. They can be as small as paint and toothbrushes to as big as millet brooms, and their application will depend on the size of the excavation site. For instance, big brushes are used in archeological sites where big artifacts such as entire cities are found. They are also the best option for harder surfaces that are less likely to crumble with little force. Conversely, small brushes are best for cleaning extra-delicate artifacts due to their softer and pliable bristles. Therefore, choosing the right brush for the job is essential to preserving the relics collected and keeping the site clean.
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