Recycling metal is vital to the future of the planet. With the limited resources available from mining and the efforts industries are taking to preserve what’s left of the diminishing resources, recycling scrap metal has never been more critical. In fact, nearly 40% of the materials used in manufacturing and the construction trade are recycled steel.
At Morecambe Metals, we are proud to participate in this ongoing and improving sustainable process. The more we can assist, the more benefits there are for future generations and the closer we become to sustainable living as a planet. However, is there a limit to how many times a piece of metal can be recycled?
Recycling Non Ferrous Metals
As a proud scrap metal recycling plant, we specialise in many non ferrous metals, most of which can be recycled several times without losing quality.
Aluminium – Having durable and lightweight properties, this non ferrous metal makes an excellent material for cans, bicycle frames, staples, and so much more. Whilst the modest pop can may seem inexpensive, it requires a lot of resources and energy to make. Luckily, they are 100% recyclable, and by recycling, even just one, can save enough energy to power a TV for three hours. The even greater news is that aluminium can be recycled multiple times without losing quality within its construct, making it a great asset to scrap metal recycling.
Copper – This metal is highly resistant to corrosion and is a great electrical and thermal conductor, offering a huge benefit to the electrical industry. Having so much malleability also makes it perfect for pipes within the construction industry. 60% of the copper used within industries is already recycled. The benefit of copper is that it can be recycled more than once and still retain its properties, making it a valuable material within metal recycling services.
Brass – Used for decorative features on furniture and statues worldwide, brass is infinitely recyclable, meaning it can be recycled as often as it needs without losing strength or any other properties, which is why brass is one of the most valuable metals to recycle.
Stainless Steel – This non ferrous metal is used widely within most manufacturing and construction industries. Being resistant to high temperatures and corrosion makes for vital applications within many products. The lifecycle of this product is virtually endless as it can be recycled infinitely without losing its quality. With so many versatile applications, ensuring we recycle this product is vital for the earth’s future.
Lead – We usually find lead in the form of lead piping, batteries, roofing and cladding. Approximately 85% of the lead used today is found in batteries which is why ensuring the correct disposal of your batteries is vital to becoming sustainable. Although this metal is toxic, it offers ductility, resistance to corrosion and high density. Not only can this metal be recycled more than once, but it is also possibly the most recycled metal worldwide, with more recycled lead being used for manufacturing and construction than raw material.
Recycling Ferrous Metal
When it comes to ferrous metal recycling, much like the above, it can be recycled multiple times without losing strength or any of its valuable properties. Our ferrous metal recycling process allows us to recycle up to 2000 tonnes of material weekly.
Steel is one of the most common ferrous metals we recycle at Morecambe Metals. It is used in a vast majority of products and constructs worldwide. The steel industry relies on consistently recycling these products to prevent damaging mining and the energy required for raw materials. For example, the steel frames of cars are made from 25% recycled material. As a dedicated scrap metal recycling facility, we understand that the more we are capable of processing re-usable material, the more help we can be in creating a more sustainable future.
Which Metals Cannot Be Recycled More Than Once?
Whilst we always try to ensure the efficient use of every bit of scrap metal we receive, there are unfortunately a select few metals which cannot be recycled.
Contaminated Metals – Whilst cans and metal containers can be recycled, if they have contained a chemical composite such as paint or oil, these can’t be recycled. Whilst every effort could be taken to ensure they are cleaned. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that they are free of contaminants. When they are melted down, the chemicals may interact with the re-usable material and compromise the entire batch.
Household Equipment – Although your pans may be produced with stainless steel, often they are coated to protect them and make them non-stick, which means they would also fall into the contaminated category.
Mercury – Although mercury is not widely common due to its toxicity, it is still used for many applications. Primarily found in electrical appliances and thermometers, anything which contains mercury cannot be recycled.
Commercial Scrap Metal Dealers
Metal is a valuable commodity. It is one of the most recycled materials worldwide and is used in almost every sector for manufacturing or construction purposes. With most of it being able to recycle endless times without losing properties, it is vital more than ever to ensure you recycle with a reputable scrap metal buyer. Get in touch today to see how Morecambe Metals can help you with your commercial metal recycling needs.