In the world of promoting sustainability, it is crucial to reuse materials that otherwise go wasted. Among this list, scrap metals constitute the highest. Worry not – this blog will discuss some of the best strategies to convert metal waste into valuable, productive items in the section below. In simple words, it will help you recycle scrap metal as much as you want. Moreover, if you need to hire a metal junk collector in London, this article will guide you. Read on to learn more.
Where can I find a reliable scrap metal collector?
Look at your surroundings, and you will find them easily! If you are still unable to do so, check out online platforms like Craigslist. There, you can contact professionals dealing in metal junk to help clear your living space efficiently.
What is the current scenario of metal waste generation?
We often do not think about the value of metals while discarding them. The worst is throwing them off in the wrong places and implementing the incorrect techniques. According to recent EPA reports, almost 14% of total wasted metals ultimately end up in open landfills. Unfortunately, this value is rising at an alarming rate. Do you know the reason behind this scenario? Lack of proper knowledge in disposal and management. In the following part, we will learn about the types of metals and ways to segregate them. For this, you require a few things, such as:
- A magnet: It is the most needed tool if you plan to dispose of waste metal. You do not require a bulky one—a pocket-sized magnet is enough! Of course, you will know what it is used for – to separate iron-containing metals from non-ferrous ones.
- Something to collect the separated metals: A cardboard carton or barrel will suffice for smaller quantities. However, for greater amounts, you may require a larger space.
Types of metals: Explained!
Metals are classified into two types – ferrous and non-ferrous- depending on the presence of iron. The simplest way to determine this is by placing a magnet near a metal. If the magnet sticks, it is a ferrous metal, and vice versa.
But why do we need to do this? It is because of the considerable price difference between the two types of metal. Non-ferrous metals often pay more than ferrous ones. Thus, if your magnet does not stick, congratulations! You are likely to get more money in your pocket shortly.
Common Non-ferrous Metals
Aluminium – It is a prime component in manufacturing building structures, window frames, rooftops, aeroplanes, etc. And guess what? The list is never-ending. Remember, if your magnet sticks to it, you will need to remove the iron component. Otherwise, you will not be able to get the full price for the metal. Do not worry—your old bottles, cans, etc., can also be recycled, but they will not be worth the amount they are.
Brass—Various things, like valves and pipelines, are made of brass. Apart from these, brass is used to manufacture bullet casings, door handles, light fixtures, faucets, etc.
Copper – Everything is made of copper, whether electrical circuits or plumbing components. It is also incorporated into refrigeration fittings, A.C.s and water supply systems.
Lead—From piping wheels to weights, lead is present everywhere. Although it is a comparatively soft material, it is very heavy.
Stainless Steel- It is an amalgam of iron and nickel, with a percentage of 70 and 8, respectively. Its utility makes it more valuable than any other metal. Stainless steel is used for the manufacturing of kitchen items, automobile parts, and aeronautics equipment. It looks much like regular steel, but it will not attract a magnet.
Ferrous Metals
Among different kind of ferrous metals, the most common ones are iron and steel. However, you need to clarify a few things. There are two main types of ferrous metals which are as follows:
New Scrap- It is the excess iron left from production units and manufacturing houses. This type of metal is not generally accessible to people.
Obsolete Scrap – Comprises old stuff such as electrical appliances, lawnmowers, automobiles, etc. So, that is basically everything old and made of steel. Both new and obsolete items will have similar behaviour in the presence of a magnet – that is, get attracted. Here’s a list of some common items below.
- Automobiles – Yes, metal junk collectors can pick up these automobile scrap parts and send them off to recycling factories. So, do not worry if you have an unused car that has been taking up your space for a prolonged period of time. It is possible to refurbish them if they still remain functional. Always contact local scrapyard teams to determine what they need from you for buying. This helps in making a well-informed decision. Most yards will ask you to empty the car liquids, which is, of course, time-consuming. But that’s worth it if you are getting paid.
- Washing machines, heaters, and other electronic appliances – The majority of scrapyards take all these items with them. Thus, if you have replaced any of the mentioned items recently, you will obtain a decent amount of money in return.
A step-by-step guide to scrap metal collection
After you segregate your metals, you need to:
- Establish a Collection System: Identify the places where scrap metal is usually discarded. For example: construction and mining sites, old and deserted buildings, etc.
- Build good relations with related companies: This includes local businesses, scrapyards etc.
- Maintain safety: This involves prioritising safety while collecting scrap metal. You must wear protective clothes, gloves, etc., to prevent hazards like accidental cuts and wounds.
- Remove contaminants: This is done to remove non-metal components from metals, such as plastic or rubber, etc., to improve their value at scrapyards.
- Identify the valuable items: Electronic gadgets such as computers, mobile phones, etc., contain precious metals such as copper, gold, and silver. If you do not recycle them, they will go to waste. Apart from electronics, ensure collecting scrap from old automobiles, like engines, radiators, and catalytic converters.
- Get information about the current market prices: By regularly checking the market prices of different metals, you know about the demand for each one. Accordingly, you can ask for a price that best suits your needs.
- Invest in transportation costs: As your efforts grow, you need to invest in a reliable vehicle to transport vast quantities of scrap metal efficiently.
Conclusion
Collecting and selling scrap metal can help you grow both financially and environmentally. However, if you cannot do it on your own, consider taking the help of a professional junk removal service. Search for ‘scrap metal collection near me’ and obtain a list of locally available facilities.
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