Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling: A Review by a Franklin Park Scrap Metal Recycling Company

10 Apr Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling: A Review by a Franklin Park Scrap Metal Recycling Company

When it comes to the categorization of metals, there are two groups: ferrous metals and non-ferrous metals. Each of these classifications carries specific characteristics and contains specific types of materials.

In this particular article, we’re going to focus on the non-ferrous metals, in particular, discussing their types, their properties, and their recyclability as well.

What is a Non-Ferrous Metal?

Non-ferrous metals are metals that contain no iron. Examples of these metals include tin, copper, brass, silver, aluminum, gold, nickel, and lead, to name just a few.

Non-ferrous metals are characterized by their lack of strength when compared to ferrous metals (steel and iron). Note, however, that what they lack in strength, they make up for in malleability. Not to mention, unlike ferrous metals, they cannot rust. Oxidation, though, is possible over time.

While not used as often as ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals still have a number of applications. Everything from copper wire, to brass gears, to aluminum soda cans are considered to be non-ferrous metals. In essence, if you’re looking to recycle non-ferrous metals, you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding them.

Recycling of Non-Ferrous Metals

In terms of metal recycling rates, the ferrous metal steel reigns supreme, seeing a rate that is substantially higher than most non-ferrous metals. However, this doesn’t mean that non-ferrous metals go unrecycled. In fact, they’re recycled on a regular basis.

For example, it’s estimated that around 1.5 million tons of copper, 2.5 million tons of aluminum, and 1.3 million tons of lead are recycled annually worldwide. These tons have to come from somewhere, and they could very well come from you.

Types of Non-Ferrous Metals 

As was noted above, there are all types of non-ferrous metals. Below, we’re going to discuss the most prominent of these metals, reviewing the recycling rate and general monetary return of each.

Aluminum

Steel is the most recycled metal in the world. However, in terms of non-ferrous metals, aluminum reigns supreme. This is because it’s used in the manufacture of a wide range of products, including soda cans, car components, sporting good equipment, and more.

Unfortunately, because it’s so common, it usually doesn’t command a lot of money at recycling centers. In terms of monetary compensation, it is generally worth around 50 cents for every pound you submit.

Copper

Copper is fairly scarce in recycling facilities. This is because it isn’t used in manufacturing as much as other types of metals. Because it’s so scarce, recycling centers are willing to pay more for it. Generally, you can expect to receive around $2.65 in exchange for a pound of non-insulated copper, and around 90 cents in exchange for a pound of insulated copper.

Brass

Brass recycling is a little more common than copper recycling, but it is still at the bottom of the metal recycling list. This is because brass sees very little use in the world of manufacturing.

As such, recycling centers are willing to pay decent money in order to obtain it. Generally, a pound of brass will see a return of approximately $1.60. Therefore, if you can find a decent batch of it, you can make quite a bit of money.

Have Non-Ferrous Metals to Recycle in Franklin Park?

Do you have non-ferrous metals in your possession? Hoping to recycle these metals in Franklin Park, Illinois? If so, we here at Central Metal Recycling are the people to see.

Our facility is equipped to accept all types of metals, including all of the non-ferrous metals discussed above. Regardless of the size or quality of your submission, we will provide you  monetary compensation.

Contact us today to get the process started!