Although many people recycle paper, cardboard, and glass, scrap metal recycling may be a confusing topic for some. Understanding how scrap metal is used can help you evaluate its worth. Here’s what you need to know. 

What Is Scrap Metal?

Scrap metal is leftover, recyclable material that has monetary value. It’s often used to produce steel, aluminum, copper, lead, and zinc. Scrap metal is particularly useful in the production of industrial metals and alloys.

Why Recycle Scrap Metal?

Metal can be repeatedly recycled. After scrap is melted down, it can be recast and serve a new function. Plus, recycling pays. Metal recyclers give you money for your scrap. Recycling also helps preserve natural resources. Recycling, scrap metal or any other reusable material is both environmentally responsible and economical.

Scrap metal recycling is beneficial because it minimizes the need for mining—an invasive and damaging method of extracting raw materials from the earth. In addition, recycling scrap reduces landfill waste as well as energy consumption.

Which Metals Can I Recycle?

Many metals, including copper, aluminum, steel, stainless steel, brass, and lead, are recyclable. Some recycling centers may accept cars for recycling ferrous (magnetic) and nonferrous (nonmagnetic) parts.  

Other sources of metal for recycling include cans, TVs, computers, and appliances, such as air conditioners and generators. The money you get for recycled parts depends on their metal content. For example, copper and brass tend to be worth more than steel scrap.

If you have scrap metal to recycle, bring it to Byer Steel in Cincinnati, OH. Since 1937, this recycling center has provided customers with effective and efficient recycling solutions for a wide range of metals in a clean facility with different container sizes and fast payment. They accept brass, aluminum, steel, iron, and lead. Call them today at (513) 948-0300 with questions or concerns, or visit their website to learn more about recycling.