It’s a good time to have scrap metal. Recycled metal conserves natural resources, reduces landfill waste, and saves energy, the effects of which trickle down into higher profits and an increase in available jobs.
Because of this, the demand for recycled scrap metal is high – and Harmon Scrap Metal has all the knowledge and tools necessary to make sure that our community is getting the most out of our metal. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get about scrap metal and the answers you need to know.
What Types of Metals Can Be Recycled?
There are many types of metal that can be recycled including aluminum, brass, bronze, cast iron, copper, steel, and tin. These metals each fall into one of two categories – ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Ferrous metals contain iron, have a high melting point, and are generally stronger than other metal types. Non-ferrous metals on the other hand do not contain iron, do not rust, and are easily manipulated and shaped.
How Much Money Can Be Earned From Recycling Scrap Metal?
The demand for recycled metal is high and scrap metal carries with it the opportunity to turn what you think might be junk into cash. However, the amount you earn hinges on a number of factors. Fluctuations in various metals’ current market value, the quantity and type of metal that are being recycled, and even geographic location can all play a part in scrap metal’s earning potential.
All that said, non-ferrous metals tend to carry higher value than their ferrous counterparts and, generally speaking, the more metal you have the more money you make.
Where Can I Take My Scrap Metal for Recycling?
Look for a scrap metal recycling company in your area that is honest, fair, and environmentally conscious. As a family-owned business servicing southern Tennessee and Northern Alabama since 1985, Harmon Scrap Metal is the model of a community-minded, customer-first scrap metal recycling company. If you’re in the area, rely on us!
Is there a minimum or maximum amount of scrap metal that can be recycled?
Harmon Scrap Metal serves everyone from those who are looking to scrap metal leftover from small home renovating projects to partnering with large businesses that need daily metal recycling services.
What Is the Process for Recycling Scrap Metal?
There are some differences in the exact process of recycling different metals, but for the most part it’s going to consist of the following steps:
- Collection: First we collect unneeded, used up, or broken metals from various sources such as construction sites, industrial facilities, and homes.
- Sorting: We then sort the metals by their type and grade. This process of sorting makes the process of recycling more efficient and saves energy.
- Processing: The metal is broken down into smaller pieces that can be transported and reused more easily.
- Purification: Some metal may need to have impurities removed. There are various ways this can be done, but the end result ends up the same – pure metal ready to be turned into usable products.
- Reuse: By this part of the process the metal is ready to be made into the everyday things you use from electronics and appliances to vehicles and tools.
Can I Recycle Metal That Is Coated or Painted?
In most cases, metal that is coated or painted can still be recycled. Generally, paint can be removed during the metal’s processing by stripping or sandblasting it.
What Are Some Common Household Items That Can Be Recycled As Scrap Metal?
There is metal at home all around us. Some of these things we use every day. Unfortunately, sometimes we have no more use for these things – so why not dispose of them responsibility and make some money while you’re at? Here are just a few of the things that have scrap metal that can be recycled.
Appliances
Old refrigerators- Washing machines
- Dryers
- Freezers
- Ovens
Plumbing fixtures
- Old pipes
- Faucets
- Showerheads
- Copper piping
Household tools
- Hammers
- Wrenches
- Saws
Kitchenware
- Old pots and pans
- Silverware
- Utensils
How Can I Prepare My Scrap Metal for Recycling?
So you’re ready to bring in scrap metal for recycling? Before you do there are a few steps you can take to prepare it for recycling.
- First, remove as much non-metal material as possible. Many recyclable items have plastics, rubber, or glass that is attached to the metal.
- Second, clean your metal the best that you can. Simply remove as much rust, dirt, or other contaminants as you can using metal brushes or sandpaper. Make sure to wear gloves and eye protection so you keep your hands and eyes safe. The cleaning process helps ensure your metal is recycled in the most efficient manner possible.
- Finally, if you have large items such as appliances or machinery, consider cutting or breaking them down into smaller pieces if possible. This is a step that makes transportation easier for you.
Get Your Scrap Metal Quote Today
Let us here at Harmon Scrap Metal give you a quote for your scrap metal today. Simply send us a text with the amount and type of metal you have, and we will send a quote to you. Our high standards, customer service, and our love for our community and its environment make us your best choice for your scrap metal recycling needs.