Intro To Recycling

Posted on: 25 August 2015

Recycling metals is not only good for the planet; it is also good for your pocket. If you know how to sort your scrap, you can also get more for your efforts. Steel and copper are commonly recycled items, but there are some things you will want to know before throwing your scrap into these piles, such as non-ferrous steel being more valuable. Here are some tips to help you get started sorting your scraps the right way:

1. Gathering Your Scrap Collecting Toolset

Before you can start recycling your scrap metals, you will want to put together a toolset. This can be things like pry bars, hammers and screw drivers to take things apart. You will also want to have a magnet, and maybe even a socket set, to dismantle pieces. Safety is also important, so you will want to have gloves and boots to avoid injury.

2. Checking Steel Materials For Non-Ferrous Alloys

There are also many steel materials that can be non-ferrous. This is because they are combined with alloys to make them more resistant to corrosion. The most valuable steel material will be stainless-steel, but galvanized materials and other non-ferrous metals will also get you a little more than the price of common steel.

3. Setting Aside The Brass And Lead Materials

You may be surprised to know that there are a lot of things made out of brass and even lead. Many of the plumbing fixtures and pipe fittings in your home are made from brass. If you want to get the most of your recycling efforts, it is a good idea to set these materials aside. Since these metals tend to be really dense, a small amount will add up quickly.

4. Unearthing Copper Hidden In Various Building Materials And Appliances

There are also many places that you can find hidden copper materials. It is commonly found in building materials, such as wiring and plumbing pipes. If you find old wires with black insulation, take the insulation off to expose the copper. You may also find pipes that are tarnished and look black, but are likely to be cooper materials that can be recycled.

These are some tips that will help you get the most for your scrap metal. If you have a lot of materials to recycle, contact a scrap metal recycling service, like Full Circle Recycling, and ask them about the metals they take and the current rates that they pay for these metals.