Have you accumulated a large volume of unwanted metal? Maybe you've cleaned out your shed or finished some home renovations? For those looking for a bit of extra cash, scrap metal collection is a great way to responsibly dispose of these materials. However, while you might assume that all metals are the same and they can all be picked up by a scrap metal merchant, the reality is a little more complicated.

Different metals have different values and recycling requirements – some are highly sought after while others will require special processing – and understanding these factors can help save you time, effort and hassle. That's why the team at Hill Metal Recycling has written this helpful guide to what can and can't be scrapped.

What metals can be scrapped?

All metals can be divided into two categories: ferrous and non-ferrous. 

The term ‘ferrous metal' refers to any metal that contains iron and is, therefore, magnetic. Ferrous metals are incredibly common and, thanks to their high carbon content, can rust easily, which means they typically have a lower scrap value than non-ferrous metals. Some of the most common non-ferrous metals you might find in your home and garden include alloy steel, stainless steel and wrought iron, all of which can be found in things like car parts, kitchen appliances, tools and railings.

As you'd assume, non-ferrous metals are the opposite; they don't contain iron and aren't magnetic. Non-ferrous metals have a range of benefits: they're lightweight, malleable and can resist rust and corrosion. These qualities mean non-ferrous metals are more sought after, and as a result, command a higher scrap value. Some of the most common non-ferrous scrap metals include:

• Copper – Often found in electrical wiring and roofing
• Lead – Common in roofing, pipes and other plumbing components
• Brass – Used in taps, locks, valves and other decorative fixtures and fittings
• Zinc – Found in galvanised steel and sometimes in roofing
• Aluminium – Present in numerous items, from window and door frames to cans, alloys, garden furniture and more

By understanding the differences between these two and separating them properly, you can maximise the value of your scrap to ensure you get the best price.

What metals can't be scrapped?

In order to transform scrap metal into something that's usable, it must undergo a long recovery process where it's broken down, melted, purified and then solidified again. This means that certain metals can't be recycled as they pose a risk to human health or the surrounding environment, or because the cost of processing them exceeds their value. This includes:

• Hazardous items: Certain metals contain toxic or dangerous substances that can leach into the surrounding environment when broken down, such as mercury and other heavy metals or metals coated with asbestos or lead paint. Gas cylinders and other pressurised containers will also often be rejected for scrap metal as they pose a risk of explosion if handled incorrectly.
  

• Contaminated goods: If metal is highly contaminated – for example, car parts that are coated in oil or machinery that has been soaked in chemicals – then this makes it challenging to recycle as these impurities mix with the pure metal and result in a poor-quality final product. There's also a risk to workers too, as they may be exposed to toxic chemicals and flammable liquids may ignite.
  

• Precious metals: The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 specifically excludes gold or silver from being classed as scrap metal, which means they're subject to different regulations and can't be legally bought by scrap metal merchants. These regulations were introduced in an attempt to improve traceability and prevent theft.

If you've got a pile of unwanted metal lying about, give the team at Hill Metal Recycling a call. For more than 25 years, we've been providing a leading scrap metal recycling service for domestic and commercial customers in Harlow and across Essex. Not sure whether your scrap metal can be recycled? Our experts will be happy to provide advice.