How much do you know about scrap metal recycling?

If you’re unfamiliar with scrap metal recycling, you may have questions about the benefits, the process, and what exactly can and cannot be recycled. Here at Manville Recycling, we’re happy to answer your questions! We want you to make the most out of your scrap metal and to avoid some of the common mistakes that people tend to make. Keep reading to find out more about the industry and how you can get involved.

Why recycle?

The scrap metal recycling business is extremely beneficial for the environment and the economy. By repurposing our scrap metal, we can contribute towards energy conservation, conservation of natural resources and reduction of greenhouse gases. Furthermore, metal recycling is an extremely powerful economic activity. The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) estimates 1.6 million people work directly in the global recycling industry, handling more than 600 million tonnes of recyclables each year.

Not all metals should be recycled the same way

There are many different kinds of metals that can be recycled, including ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Ferrous metals contain iron and are known for their strength. Steel, stainless steel, carbon steel and cast iron are all examples of ferrous metals, and can be commonly found in architecture, construction and various appliances. Non-ferrous metals do not contain any iron and are usually more resistant to corrosion. Some examples of non-ferrous metals include aluminum, copper and brass. One of the downsides of ferrous metals, from a recycling perspective, is that they’re susceptible to corrosion and not always salvageable. Recycling these metals involves melting, then purifying and compacting them into solid blocks, which is why it is important to check its condition beforehand.

It is important to identify the parts and pieces of metals within your material to be recycled. A list of accepted metals for recycling can be found on our website here. Prior to recycling, it is also a good idea to categorize your metals into ferrous and non-ferrous groups. Using a magnet can help you identify your metals easily, as magnets will stick to ferrous metals. Non-ferrous metals, such as stainless steel and bronze, are very valuable to metal recyclers and are worth more money!

Toxic metals cannot be recycled

In some cases, scrap metal cannot be recycled if it contains potential toxins. This includes dirty paint cans, motor oil cans, and contaminated pots and pans. Keep reading for a list of items that cannot be recycled:

  1. Dirty paint cans
  2. Motor oil cans
  3. Contaminated pots and pans
  4. Aerosol cans with liquid still inside
  5. Metal syringes and razor blades
  6. Propane gas tanks
  7. Items that contain mercury, such as old thermostats and fluorescent lights
  8. Items that contain lead, such as the cathode ray tubes found in televisions

Cleaning your metals

Rinsing your recyclables isn’t required, but it does help to keep pests and unpleasant odours away. Be sure to check for oil, residue and other contaminants in your scrap metal before drop-off, which will ensure that your metals will be accepted easily. Clean metals will help quicken the recycling process, and can even add value to your load!

Visiting us for the first time?

Many homeowners may feel intimidated when visiting a scrap metal recycling facility for the first time. However, scrap metal is one of the most valuable products you can recycle and being involved encompasses several amazing benefits.

If you’ve got unwanted metals in your household or garage, Manville Recycling will offer great rates for your scrap metal recycling. For more information about our recycling process or what we can offer, visit our services page or call us at (416) 751-4732.