Whether you’re performing home renovations or have an old car that’s taking up space, you may find yourself with scrap metal you’re unsure what to do with. Different types of metal have varying degrees of quality, called grades, which determine their value. Here’s a brief guide to scrap metal grades so you can determine what to do with your recyclables. 

A Guide to Scrap Metal  

Mixed Scrap 

A medley of different metals of varying degrees of quality and cleanliness is known as mixed scrap. This brings the lowest price at the recycling center because a technician will need to clean and sort it. If you’re trading in metal for cash, take the time to clean and sort it yourself to get the most cash. 

Aluminum

Aluminum is one of the most common types of scrap metal and yields a comparatively low price when recycled. It’s also extremely versatile and can be used to make anything from cups to bike parts and golf clubs. It has several grades, with drink cans at the lower end of the spectrum. Aluminum sheets in good condition with all trims and screws removed typically command a higher price. 

Brass 

Brass is derived from copper and zinc and results in a decent payout when recycled. This metal typically has a yellow tint and is used in doorknobs, hardware fixtures, and small hardware supplies. 

Copper

Solid copper is one of the most prized scrap metals. It’s often recycled from old pipes but can also be found in appliances and wiring. It has two grades, the first of which contains no brass or significant corrosion. The second type is that which has over 5% of other metals or is significantly corroded. An insulated copper wire has three grades, depending on the weight of the insulation versus the weight of the copper: Copper wire 25% consists of heavily insulated wire, 45% has thinner insulation, and 55% has thinner insulation and copper thicker than a pencil lead. 

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is considered clean when it contains less than 5% of other materials. You can tell metal is steel or iron if a magnet sticks to it. It’s not as valuable as some other materials, but it can be used in many applications, including countertops and cutlery. 

T&S Automotive in Thomasville, NC, is the community’s go-to shop for scrap metal and used auto parts. They buy all junk cars, including those 10 years or older with no title, and also purchase various scrap metal pieces, including aluminum wheels, batteries, and catalytic converters. Whether you’re looking for a hard-to-find old car part or need to recycle scrap pieces, turn to these trusted professionals for assistance. Call (336) 882-7989 to speak with a friendly staff member or visit the website to learn more about their services.