How to Separate Scrap Metal

Recycling scrap metal is an economically and ecologically sound practice. Recycling facilities that are equipped to handle and process scrap metals will pay you for each load you bring in. On the ecological side, you help to keep bulky metal products out of the nation's landfills. This is important because some scrap metals contain high levels of lead and other toxins that can leach into the soil. Also, it takes 75% less energy to recycle metal than it does to create products from scratch, according to the Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council.

Instructions

• 1

  Make a separate pile for aluminum (including food and soda cans) and copper. These metals are non-ferrous, so they are not magnetic. There are other types of non-ferrous metals, but aluminum and copper bring the highest prices at recycling centers. Therefore, you should keep them clean and separate from other metals.

• 2

  Sort the remaining metals into ferrous (magnetic) and non-ferrous piles. A magnet can help you with this process. Common non-ferrous metals include brass, magnesium, lead, nickel, tin and some forms of stainless steel. You will often find them in plumbing supplies like pipes, fittings and fixtures. Stainless steel is often used in auto radiators, where water would corrode regular steel, as well as in boat engine parts and other marine equipment. Common ferrous steel products include rebar, tire rims and other automotive parts, and steel siding.

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• 3

  Remove all non-metal components from the metal, including wheels, handles, plastic parts, and any oil or grease.

• 4

  Sort all wires by type and size. Again, keep aluminum and copper wire separate from other types of wire. Do not bother removing wire from spools. Do not burn insulation or wood parts off the wire. Facilities that recycle wire have special machines that can take insulation and wood off the wire without damaging the metal. If you can remove solder, brass connections, plating and other contaminants from the wire without damaging it, you will usually get more money for it.