Scrap metal is generated by the disposal of items that are no longer serviceable or wanted and by manufacturing processes that leave excess metal during the fabrication of the desired metal part. Scrap metal is not biodegradable, and is therefore well suited to recycling.
Separate the metals for much better prices for the higher value scrap metals. The scrap can be sold to Crow Metals for recycling, since they can be melted down by foundries and used to fabricate new parts. Use these tips to learn how to sort scrap metal.
1. Take out car batteries
Crow Metals will accept these as whole units
2. Pick out car catalytic converters
Crow Metals will accept these as whole units and will be priced on valuation.
3. Separate ferrous from non-ferrous metals
Iron, steel and other ferrous metals are magnetic. If they are small enough and the magnet is large enough, they can be lifted out with a magnet. Larger ferrous pieces are identified by noting that a magnet will stick to these pieces. All ferrous metals will be accepted as 1 type of item by Crow Metals.
4. Find non-magnetic, stainless steel
Stainless steel – alloyed (mixed) in smelting with chromium – has a dull shine and is heavier than chrome/or nickel - plated steel. It may be slightly magnetic in some alloys. Note: If “stainless steel” has magnetic attraction, it must be added to the iron pieces, rather than among the stainless steel pieces.
5. Sort out copper pieces.
Copper is lightweight and reddish in colour. Copper may become greenish over time due to corrosion. Copper comes in 3 grades. ~ Gather all electrical wiring. This wiring is considered bright copper . Strip, using wire strippers (burning off insulation is illegal, see “Warnings” section). Discard the stripped I nsulation for recycling . Some metal recyclers We also accept wire with the insulation. Crow Metals accepts all types and grades of cable. ~ Segregate copper tubing (considered new copper tube & painted copper tube) . Remove any brass fittings from the tubing. Crow Metals will likely offer only the lour price of brass if the copper tubing still has brass fittings attached, because of labour of handling and removing the brass (in buildings, air conditioner piping will be copper). ~ Put aside copper tanks, such as special, water heater tanks. Remove any attached Insulation, covers and fittings from the tank.
6. Separate aluminium
Aluminium is a lightweight Metal with a dull silver colour. Drink cans and lightweight lawn furniture are considered light aluminium. Remove all plastic fittings, wood, glass and steel. Aluminium can be further sorted, Crow Metals pay more for different types of aluminium such as Alloy Wheels.
7. Sort out lead
Lead is soft and heavy, and has a dull grey colour. Lead is mainly used for roofing, as well as piping, scub a diving weights, fishing plumbs and ballast weights.
8. Separate brass.
Brass is yellow. It is often used for bathroom fixtures, door knobs and as trim hardware, and it can be chromed.
9. Electric motor parts can be recycled.
Crow Metals buy all types of Electric Motors from a washing machine motor to a fan.
These are a few examples of the grades we recycle. For any further questions on getting the highest value in sorting your scrap, please call Carl Berry on 01708 749031 or email email@example.com