Have you ever wondered what became of your unwanted scrap metal materials after you turned them over to your local scrap metal dealer? Well, if you’re interested in discovering the amazing process that is metal recycling, then you’ve definitely come to the right place.
Metal recycling, like most other types of recycling, is integral in today’s society. In a world full of finite resources, it’s important to reduce, reuse and recycle as much as we can. Thankfully, the invention of metal recycling has enabled us to gain as much usage as possible out of pre-existing metal materials, whilst also allowing us to save money and conserve energy that would otherwise be spent on extracting and processing virgin ores.
Below, we’ve done our best to outline the process of metal recycling, so that you can gain a better understanding of how metal recycling actually works:
1. Collection
The first step in the metal recycling process is collection, where we collect the unwanted items and scrap metal materials offered up by you. These may include items such as whitegoods, leftover construction materials, batteries, car parts, etc. Generally, you will be able to receive cash for scrap in return for handing in these materials, which is an excellent incentive for most people!
2. Shredding and Sorting
Next up, the metals are shredded to promote the melting process, as the smaller the shredded metals are, the easier they will be to melt. Consequently, less energy will be required for the melting of these materials. After the metals have been shredded, they are placed into magnetic drums which sort the non-ferrous metals out from the ferrous metals.
3. Melting
The scrap metal is then blasted with a hot air which removes any paint or other impurities on the surface of the material. Following this, the scrap metal is melted in a large furnace, although there are specific furnaces designed to melt different types of scrap metal materials. Each metal is taken to the furnace designed specifically for that metal. Depending on a number of factors, such as the size of the furnace, the amount of metal and the temperature inside the furnace, the melting process can take anywhere between a few minutes to a couple of hours.
4. Purification
The next step is purification, which basically ensures that the final product is free from impurities and high in quality. Keep in mind that the presence of impurities can alter the metal’s properties. One of the main purification methods used in this step is electrolysis.
5. Solidifying
Following the purification process, the molten metals are then carried by a conveyor belt to cool and solidify. The melted scrap metals are then formed into specific shapes such as blocks called ingots, which are then sent to rolling mills where they can be rolled into sheets.
How Do I Recycle My Scrap Metal Materials?
Here at Allied Metal Recyclers, we’re passionate about recycling metals, and want to encourage as many individuals and businesses as possible to join in and participate in the cause. Offering competitive prices in exchange for your unwanted scrap metal, along with convenient yard clearance services, it’s easier than ever for you to get rid of your leftover metal materials when you contact us for scrap metal recycling.
To organise a yard clearance or request a sample analysis, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Allied Metal Recyclers today!
