Scrap metal recycling is the process of recovering and reprocessing metal waste into reusable raw materials for manufacturing. This is instead of mining and refining new metal ores, which is energy-intensive and environmentally harmful. Scrap metal recycling helps conserve natural resources, reduce emissions, and lower production costs because scrap metal can be reintroduced as raw material in the production of new goods.
There are two main categories of metals that can be scraped. Ferrous and Non-ferrous metals.
- Ferrous Metals: This is metal that contains some degree of iron. Steel is an example of a ferrous metal that is widely used.
- Non Ferrous Metals: This is metal that does not contain iron as a component. Nonferrous metals includes aluminum, copper, lead, nickel, tin, and zinc to name a few.
Scrap Recycling Process
In general, the scrap recycling or reclamation process typically includes the following steps. Once the metals are recycled they can be resold to manufacturers for production of new products.Â
Collection: Metal scrap is gathered from homes, businesses, demolition sites, and manufacturing.
Sorting: Metals are separated by type or alloy. Often the metals are analyzed with an XRF device, or small quantities of the material are melted and tested to determine the assay of the material being scrapped.
Processing: Scrap is shredded or cut into smaller pieces for efficient melting.
Melting: Each type of metal is melted in a furnace designed for that metal.
Purification: Impurities are removed via electrolysis or chemicals.
Solidifying: The pure molten metal is poured into molds (like bars, ingots or sheets).
Why Recycling Scrap Metal is Important
Recycled metals play a pivotal role in the manufacturing process, saving natural resources, reducing energy cost, and lowering production cost. Even more, metals do not degrade or lost their chemical properties during recycling, so they can be recycled an infinite number of times. Â
Recycled metals make up a significant portion of the materials used in US manufacturing, varying by metal type and industry. Below are some examples.
- Aluminum – Over 80% of aluminum produced in the U.S. comes from recycled sources, known as secondary production.Â
- Steel – Approximately 70% of U.S. steel is produced using recycled material, primarily through electric arc furnaces (EAFs), which utilize almost 100% scrap steel.
- Lead – Approximately 78% of lead used in the U.S. is sourced from recycled materials, primarily from lead-acid batteries.
- Copper – Accounts for about 35–40% of the U.S. copper supply. The demand for recycled copper is growing, due to the expansion of renewable energy and electric vehicles.
- Tin –Â An estimated 35% of tin used in U.S. manufacturing comes from recycled sources.
Why Recycle with Mayer Alloys?
Mayer Alloys will guarantee that your scrap metals and dross, regardless of quantities, will be processed in an ISO Certified 14001 facility. We are buyers and recyclers of tin, lead, tin-lead alloys as well as other nonferrous metals and hard to recycle metals. With Mayer you will find peace of mind that your material is being responsibly recycled and you will have the documentation to support this.
Mayer Alloys Corporation is based in the Metro Detroit area and provides business to business scrap metal recycling solutions. We provide our customers with:
- Competitive Scrap Prices
- Reliable Transportation
- Environmentally Responsible Recycling Documentation for your company’s record