Scrap metal recycling is essential for saving energy and preserves natural resources. Certain metals have different uses and are more commonly recycled. Some are used in building construction, others are used at home for kitchen ware. When looking to recycle metal it’s worth knowing the value, as prices can vary when selling it.
As a Manchester based scrap processor we specialise in recycling a number of metals. Below is a list of what can be recycled and how much they’re worth.
Steel
Steel is the most recycled metal in the world. It’s recycled for construction, hardware tools, cars and cans. Because it has magnetic properties it’s especially useful for electrical appliances. It can be separated into three scrap categories: home scrap, prompt scrap and obsolete scrap.
Home scrap comes from inside a steel mill and becomes available in weeks. Prompt scrap is produced from products that have been manufactured from steel and is available in months. Obsolete scrap is produced from steel products at the end of their lives and it may take decades for it to be available.
Steel is recycled regularly, so the prices are unlikely to fluctuate.
Copper
Copper can be recycled for use in electrical applications and wiring. For non-electrical purposes it’s used for plumbing tubes and roofing sheets. Scrap copper needs to be well diluted for use in power cables because any impurities may cause hot shortness. This is when the metal cracks under high temperatures when it has a low mechanical strength.
Copper prices tend to shift with the needs of the market, meaning you’re likely to get a higher price for it compared to steel.
Aluminium
Aluminium is an incredibly versatile alloy and offers environmental benefits because it’s infinitely recyclable. It also helps reduce CO2 emissions through its production processes. Globally, up to 70% of all aluminium cans are recycled, making it the most recycled packaging product in the world. With its versatility it can be reused in construction, cars and kitchen appliances as well as be recast into its original form.
Because it’s recycled continuously the price of aluminium doesn’t tend to fluctuate much.
When we recycle scrap metal our policy is to give a reliable quote. We also collect scrap metal right across the North-West. For more information feel free to contact us on 0161 928 9981.
