Scrap Metal Types Guide
Understand the difference between common scrap metal types before arranging collection.
Ferrous vs Non-Ferrous Scrap Metal
Ferrous Metals
Ferrous metals contain iron and are usually magnetic, such as steel and cast iron.
Non-Ferrous Metals
Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron in the same way and are often more valuable, including copper, brass, aluminium, lead and stainless steel.
Quick Magnet Test
The simplest way to sort your scrap at home or on site is with a magnet. If the magnet sticks, the metal is likely ferrous, such as steel, iron or stainless steel with magnetic grades. If the magnet does not stick, the metal is usually non-ferrous, including copper, brass, aluminium, lead and most grades of stainless steel.
Separating ferrous from non-ferrous before a collection helps us identify your load quickly. Ferrous metal is still recycled, but non-ferrous metals such as copper and brass usually command higher values because they can be remelted without losing their key properties.
Why Non-Ferrous Metal Is Usually Worth More
Recycled Without Losing Value
Non-ferrous metals such as copper, brass and aluminium can be melted down and reused repeatedly without significant loss of quality. That makes the recovered material valuable to manufacturers and means scrap dealers can pay more for it.
Load Composition Matters
A load of clean, separated copper or brass is far easier to classify than a mixed pile. Keeping copper separate from steel, removing plastic attachments and stripping heavy cable all help an assessor grade the material more accurately.
Steel & Iron
Common in appliances, frames, shelving, machinery and general mixed metal.
Copper
Found in pipework, tanks, cable, wiring and heating systems.
Brass
Often found in taps, valves, fittings and plumbing parts.
Aluminium
Common in extrusion, wheels, frames and lightweight metal items.
Lead
Usually found in old pipework, roofing and sheet material.
Cable
Contains copper but varies widely depending on insulation and cable type.