Scrap metal is a valuable resource that can be recycled and repurposed into a whole range of products, and may even be able to be used as they are in the form of steel seconds. Scrap metal recycling is a great way to help reduce waste and conserve natural resources. The process of repurposing scrap metal involves melting it down and reshaping it into new items, such as construction materials, machinery parts, and consumer products. This process not only helps to reduce the environmental impact of mining and manufacturing new materials, but it also saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Here’s how your metal goes from scrap to something new.

The first step in the scrap metal recycling process is, of course, to collect and sort the scrap metal. This involves gathering scrap metal from various sources – construction sites, manufacturing facilities, and anything that the general public may bring to a scrapyard. The collected scrap metal is then sorted based on its type, which can include ferrous metals (such as iron and steel, which are praised for their tensile strength) and non-ferrous metals (such as copper, aluminium, and brass). Sorting helps to ensure that the scrap metal can be recycled efficiently, just as glass and cardboard and plastic are all separated during recycling.

After the scrap metal has been sorted, it’s then shredded and processed. Shredding involves cutting the scrap metal into smaller pieces, which makes it easier to transport and process. The shredded metal is then further processed using various techniques such as magnetic separation and air classification. These processes help to remove impurities and contaminants from the scrap metal, making it more suitable to be reused.

Once the scrap metal has been shredded and processed, the next step is to melt and purify it. The melting process will see the scrap metal put into a furnace or other melting equipment in order to convert it into molten metal. The molten metal is then purified using various techniques such as fluxing and electrolysis. Purification helps to remove any remaining impurities from the metal.

The final step in the scrap metal recycling process is to manufacture new products using the recycled metal. The purified and melted metal can be used to create a wide range of new products such as car parts, construction materials, and consumer goods. The recycled metal is melted down and poured into moulds or formed using other manufacturing techniques to create the desired product.

Scrap metal recycling goes a long way. Here are just a handful of things that scrap metal can be recycled to produce.

Recycled scrap metal can be used to create a wide range of automotive parts, including engine blocks, transmissions, and suspension components. These parts are often made from ferrous metals such as steel and cast iron due to the tensile strength of these metals.

Scrap metal recycling can also be used to create building materials such as rebar, beams, and structural steel. These materials are commonly used in construction projects, particularly for large commercial and industrial buildings.

Many household appliances contain recycled scrap metal, including refrigerators, stoves, and washing machines. The metal is used to create the outer shells and internal components of these appliances.

Recycled scrap metal can be used to create a wide range of consumer goods such as cans, utensils, and decorative items. Non-ferrous metals such as aluminium and copper are commonly used for these products.

Recycled scrap metal can also be used in the production of electronics, including computers, phones, and other devices. The metal is used to create circuit boards, wiring, and other components.

Finally, recycled scrap metal can be used to create a variety of packaging products such as cans, bottles, and foil. These products are commonly made from aluminium or steel and are widely used in the food and beverage industry.

When you choose to do your scrap metal recycling with Elite Recyclers, you’re contributing to a positive outcome for the planet and your community. Learn more about our services here.