Metal Waste

What Is Metal Waste?

Metal waste is classed as any metal composition of any shape or size that is no longer required. The good news is that almost all metal waste can be recycled.

There are 2 main types of metal, Ferrous and Non-Ferrous.

Ferrous Metal

Usually magnetic, often containing iron, is often used for industrial applications, construction of houses and buildings or piping works. Some examples are Steel, Cast Iron and Wrought Iron.

Non-Ferrous

Metals do not normally contain iron and are not magnetic. They are strong with a lighter weight. Some examples are Tin, Copper, Stainless Steel, Aluminium, Nickel, Brass, Lead and Bronze.

What Is The Difference Between Ferrous And Non-ferrous Scrap Metal?

Magnetic properties

Ferrous metals are magnetic and can be used in electrical and motor manufacturing. Non-ferrous on the other hand is used for wiring and electrical applications due to its non-magnetic properties.

Weight

Ferrous metals are much heavier than non-ferrous metals and may require a bigger skip for storage and removal.

Corrosion

Ferrous metal generally has a high carbon content and is more susceptible to corrosion, Non-Ferrous metal does not contain iron and is more resistant to corrosion.

Recyclability

Both ferrous and non-ferrous metal can be recycled. Non ferrous metal can be repeatedly recycled due to it not containing degradable properties and is in high demand so it is very important to recycle. Ferrous metal needs to be melted, purified and compacted.

Metal Waste Collection Nationwide

With more and more businesses being aware of the environment and the impact waste has on it, most people now understand the importance of recycling. Not only is it good for the environment, it is also good for business. 

Metal Waste Bins

Depending on the amount of scrap metal your business produces determines the waste management bin you need. Generally we use skips for metal waste, they can be open or closed. For businesses who produce large amounts of metal waste Roll on Roll off containers may be more suitable. Our waste management specialists will be able to identify what you need in order to manage your waste metal.

What Happens To Metal Waste?

Once your metal waste is collected it is taken to a specialist recycling facility where it goes through the recycling process.

• First the metal is sorted to remove any non-metal items using specialist machinery with sensors and magnets
• The sorted metal is then shredded, to make it easier to melt
• The shredded metal is then melted in a furnace, although this can use a lot of energy, it is lessened by pre-shredding and uses a lot less energy than mining the new product
• Electrolysis is then used to purify the metal
• Finally the melted metal is cooled and solidified and shaped generally into bars.
• The recycled metal is then taken to factories ready to be made into new products.
  

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