A Guide to Scrap Metal Recycling: What Kind of Scrap Metals You Can Recycle

Posted on: 20 September 2023

Recycling is not only a noble effort towards saving the environment, but it can also turn out to be a great way to make some extra cash. Scrap metal recycling is one such way that not only generates income but also allows you to reduce your carbon footprint on the planet. Scrap metal recycling involves collecting discarded metals and processing them so that they can be reused in making new products. Here are a few of the different kinds of scrap metals that you can recycle to earn some extra cash.

Ferrous Metal

Ferrous metals are the most commonly recycled metal type. These metals are magnetic and contain iron. The most frequent types of ferrous metals include steel and cast iron. These metals are not the same as stainless steel and aluminum. However, ferrous metals are still essential to recycle. Most often, they are found in automobile engines, beams, and railroad tracks.

Non-Ferrous Metals

Non-ferrous metals are the second most recycled metal type. These types of metals don't contain iron, meaning they are non-magnetic. Common non-ferrous metals include copper, brass, aluminum, lead, and stainless steel. These types of metals are commonly used in electrical equipment, pipes, and plumbing fixtures.

Precious Metals

Precious metals are the most valuable scrap metals you can recycle. Although not as frequently recycled as other kinds of metals, precious metals are uncompromisingly valuable. They include metal types such as gold, silver, platinum, rhodium, and palladium. These metals are most often found in electronics, jewelry, and dental fillings.

E-Scrap Metals

E-scrap metals refer to electronic scrap. These include any electronic piece that can be recycled, such as phone chargers, old laptops, and printers. Electronic recycling is one of the most essential methods of recycling, as electronic waste products can be hazardous to the environment. Recycling electronic scrap means stripping the electronics of metals that can be used to make new products.

Auto Scrap Metals

Auto metals are also prevalent in scrap recycling. Auto scrap refers to junked vehicles that have become irreparable. When a vehicle's engine dies, the vehicle's metals can still be recycled. They offer a good source of metals that can be recycled to make new vehicles. Auto scrap metals include copper wiring, iron, and steel.

By recycling metals, you can preserve valuable natural resources and minimize the waste that ends up in landfills. Additionally, it also helps to reduce the environmental impact associated with mining and manufacturing new metals. When you understand what metals are recyclable, you will be able to differentiate them from metals that aren't. Furthermore, by recycling scrap metals, you earn extra cash while saving the environment.

Reach out to scrap steel recycling services near you to learn more.

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