What Are the Different Types of Scrap Metal?

Scrap metal recycling can be confusing for people who are just starting out. There are all sorts of different classifications, grades, and types of scrap metals. While it all seems irrelevant, it is important to know what type of metal you are dealing with. Whether you are building a structure from recycled scrap metal or just looking to recycle some scrap metal for extra cash, knowing the classification of scrap metal will set you up for success. Although scrap metal is often considered waste, it is still a valuable product and a popular commodity. Now, before you start recycling, you need to understand the different classifications.

Classifications of scrap metal: ferrous and non-ferrous metals

Each metal falls into one of two classifications: ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

Ferrous metals

Ferrous metals are the most common type of recycled metals. In fact, the Australia processes enough ferrous metal, by weight, tons every single day. Now that’s a lot of metal! The easiest way to differentiate it from non-ferrous metals is that all ferrous metals are magnetic. This is because ferrous metal is iron or steel, or at least contains it. Common ferrous metal items include refrigerators, ovens, cars, cast iron skillets, and more. Ferrous metals also have a high carbon content, which generally makes them prone to rust or corrosion, making them obsolete.

Non-ferrous

Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron, so they are not magnetic and are generally more resistant to corrosion and rust than ferrous metals. These metals are commonly used in building and construction applications such as gutters, roofing, pipes, and electrical. Nonferrous metals include brass, gold, nickel, tin, lead, and zinc, among others. Common properties of nonferrous metals are that they are malleable and lightweight. These properties make them especially ideal for aircraft construction.

Types of scrap metal found in Australia

There are many types of metal, hundreds or thousands when it comes to the nitty-gritty classifications. When you know the types of scrap metal you are dealing with, it is easier to know what you can and cannot do with it, where it is commonly found, and what it is worth.

Aluminum

Aluminum is one of the most commonly recycled scrap metals. You can find aluminum in beverage cans, cling film, screen door frames, or storm windows, just to name a few.

Brass

Brass is a common metal to find in and around your home. You can find it in places like doorknobs, brass-plated dinnerware, and old bed frames.

Carbide

If you have a lot of tools, you’ll find carbide in tool bits or drill bits. So, whether you get a new set of tools for Father’s Day or just replace broken pieces, remember that you can recycle them instead of throwing them in the trash.

Copper

Copper is the third most used metal in construction and manufacturing. Copper is very valuable and sought after. This metal is commonly found in household plumbing, living room furniture, appliances, kitchen sinks, cookware, and electronic wiring.

Iron

Common household items such as cast iron pots and pans, lawnmowers, backyard swings, and iron railings are perfectly acceptable as scrap metal. Many outdoor furniture items are also commonly made of iron.

Lead

Lead requires so much energy to mine that manufacturers prefer to buy recycled lead because it saves time and money. It is also a highly toxic metal, so be sure to protect yourself and the environment when handling it. Many older homes were built with lead water pipes that need to be replaced as soon as possible, as they are a health hazard.

Titanium

Titanium is used in just about everything from jewelry to airplanes, which is why it is so valuable. When you have a metal that is so versatile, you can use it on a variety of projects. It is also very durable and resistant to corrosion.

Scrap metal recycling in Melbourne

Now that you know all the classifications of scrap metal and the different types of metal, you can take your scrap metal to an expert scrap metal recycler like Ser-Sider sas

Metal Scrap Companies buys, processes and sells almost all classifications and types of scrap metal. The main benefit of recycling scrap metal, besides taking it off your hands, is that it keeps it out of landfills, which is great for our environment. Buying recycled scrap metal saves manufacturers time and money because they don’t need to spend time and resources obtaining new materials. By recycling your scrap metal in Melbourne, you can receive additional revenue, save manufacturers money, all while providing a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone.