A lot of people see recycling as something that only involves small items, such as paper products, plastic bottles, and glass containers. Many are not aware that recycling scrap metal can be profitable and have a more significant impact in preserving the environment. Whether you’re throwing out rusty cutlery or bringing an old car to the scrapyard, it pays to learn more about metal recycling.

What Counts as Scrap Metal?

Scrap metal can be classified into two types, ferrous and non-ferrous. Using a magnet is the fastest way to distinguish between the two. If the magnet sticks, it’s ferrous. Often used in construction, infrastructure, and vehicles, metals like steel and iron are heavy and common. Non-ferrous metals include copper, lead, aluminum, and zinc. They are lighter, more pliable, and can be recycled repeatedly without degradation.  

Why Should It Be Recycled?

There are several benefits to recycling scrap metal. Conserving natural resources is one of the most prominent. Metal is excavated through ore mining, which affects the environment negatively. It takes less energy to recycle metal than produce new material from mined ores. Recycling also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.

How Is It Recycled & Reused?

After scrap metal is collected and sorted, it is squeezed compact and shredded into smaller pieces or sheets for further processing. The sheets are melted inside a large furnace, then undergo purification to segregate impurities and ensure quality. Some of the recycled metals are used in the manufacturing of automobiles, appliances, and industrial containers. Recycled aluminum and steel are often made into new food packaging and roofing materials.

If you have any scrap metal at home, you can recycle it and earn some cash to boot. Bring your scrap to Quandt Auto Salvage in Carroll, IA. They also have a huge inventory of used auto parts you can choose from. Give them a call at (800) 522-1903 or visit their website to see what they have in stock.