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Monetising Scrap Brass and Copper for Large Plumbing Businesses

A pile of copper pipes

The value of plumbing as a trade is unquestionable, as it keeps hydraulic systems efficient; however, there is much more beyond fixing leaks! In fact, many don’t realise the great potential plumbing franchises and large businesses have to increase their profits thanks to valuable materials like copper and brass. These scrapped metals, which are seen as mere leftovers, hold considerable market value, which, once recognised, allows plumbers to turn waste into wealth.

In this blog, we will use our extensive experience in metal recycling to explore this interesting process, focusing on the value of these metals and the best techniques for collecting them without forgetting the legal and environmental implications of keeping the activity lawful and valid.

A pile of copper pipes and fittings

Brass and Copper: from Leftovers to Financial Opportunities

It is quite well known that scrap brass and copper are among the most valuable metals in the recycling market. Brass, used in plumbing fixtures such as faucets, valves, and pipes, is an alloy of copper and zinc; copper, instead, is essential in pipes, fittings, and wiring due to its excellent conductivity and malleability. Despite the prices for these metals going up and down based on demand, in general, they consistently remain high due to their widespread use and the substantial cost of sourcing them raw.

For large plumbing businesses, there is immense value in this market. Usually, the worth of scrap brass and copper depends on their purity and condition. Clean, unalloyed copper, often referred to as “bare bright copper,” is priced high, while brass is more complex to value due to its different alloys and conditions. The secret is to stay ahead of the game when it comes to current market prices, which, fortunately, are easily tracked online through commodity price websites. By doing so, large industrial businesses can determine the best times to sell their collected scrap metals, turning discarded leftovers into incredible financial opportunities.

A group of copper pipes

How to Identify and Collect Scrap Metals Efficiently

The first step in monetising brass and copper is to identify and collect them effectively. As we said, in large plumbing businesses, professionals often work with these metals when dealing with old pipes, fittings, and fixtures but don’t know how valuable they are. So, knowing how to distinguish between different types of metals is the start. It may seem easy, but it isn’t! For example, we know the distinctive reddish-brown colour; however, when significantly old, it turns greenish due to corrosion. Brass, instead, is naturally yellowish with a somewhat dull shine, but it will turn greenish with time for the same reasons as copper does. So, here are a few valuable pieces of advice:

  • A systematic approach makes a difference. Our best advice is to separate scrap metals and set aside a dedicated bin for brass and copper.
  • Using proper tools, such as metal shears and pipe cutters, helps disassemble fixtures and reduce pipes to manageable sizes.
  • To increase resale value, it is best to clean the metals of any solder, paint, or attachments.

By consistently collecting metal leftovers from big industrial jobs, plumbing businesses will easily accumulate significant quantities of brass and copper over time, turning regular maintenance and installation into an additional source of income.

A large pile of scrap metal

Cultivating Good Relationships with Metal Recycling Specialists

Building strong relationships with local scrap yards and recycling businesses like Morecambe Metals has advantages for large plumbing franchises and businesses. Specialists like us offer commercial activities efficient scrap metal collection and scrap metal buying services, which represent the very first phase of metal recycling. So, here are the fundamental steps of the process:

  1. Research and visit scrap yards to establish a consistent pattern of sales.
  2. Understand each scrap yard’s specific requirements.
  3. Regular communication guarantees the development of a professional relationship and can lead to valuable advice on market trends and the best times to sell.
  4. Large plumbing businesses that invest time in these fruitful relationships will turn their scrap metal into profit more effectively.

Legal and Environmental Considerations

So far, we have discussed the financial side of recycling scrap metal, but we should always bear in mind that it is not just about profit. It must also adhere to legal and environmental standards.

To make the entire process lawful, plumbing businesses must comply with local regulations regarding the transportation and sale of scrap metal, provide specific documentation and licences, and keep detailed records of their transactions, including where and when the metal was obtained, to comply with laws fully. Franchises usually cover this aspect very efficiently.

Sustainability is equally important, especially to us. Proper recycling of scrap brass and copper reduces the need for mining new raw materials, which has significant environmental impacts. On top of that, businesses specialising in commercial plumbing should also ensure that their scrap is recycled responsibly by choosing reputable scrap metal specialists that follow environmentally friendly practices.

At Morecambe Metals, we possess all the legal authorisations and Duty of Care licences that allow us to sell and collect scrap metal from businesses legally and sustainably.

A bag of copper wire

The Importance of Sorting and Processing Scrap Metals

As we briefly mentioned above, sorting and processing metals are just as important and effective in increasing profit. Before selling scrap brass and copper, for instance, large plumbing businesses need to separate clean copper from copper with attachments or mixed metals to ensure that the highest quality, and therefore highest-paying, metal is sold. To do this efficiently, a reliable set of scales to weigh the metals accurately is fundamental.

Additionally, processing the metals, such as stripping insulated copper wire or removing non-metal attachments from brass fixtures, boosts their value. This procedure requires additional time and effort, but it will ultimately pay off. Finally, it is worth mentioning that plumbing companies should always keep their scrap metals secure, storing them away to prevent theft, especially copper, which is often targeted.

 

If you run a large industrial plumbing business or franchise and are seeking a reliable partner to turn your metal leftovers into valuable profit, you can rely on our services to collect and buy scrap metal. With Morecambe Metals, you can rest assured the entire process fully complies with laws and regulations and is also sustainable. Do you want to learn more about us and our services in Lancaster and beyond? Contact us today, and one of our team will get back to you promptly!

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Revving Up Recycling: Sustainable Solutions for Car Parts

A group of cars stacked on a pallet

We are all consumers of something in different measures. And with the growing focus on sustainability, the least we should do to guarantee future generations a better world is to play our part and support a vision where the automotive industry embraces more eco-conscious choices and participates in recycling programs.

By reimagining how we handle end-of-life vehicles, we join a pioneering movement that introduces innovative solutions to address environmental challenges and favour the circular economy. In this blog, we delve into the processes, practices, and initiatives we adopt and encourage at Morecambe Metals to recycle and repurpose old car parts and drive overall positive change.

A close-up of a car engine block

Car Parts Repurposed: Transforming Waste into Value

As a family-run business, we have always prioritised sustainability, making it a real staple. As fully authorised scrap metal dealers, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of giving a second chance to scrap car parts to reduce waste and promote a circular economy effectively. Instead of letting them end up unnecessarily unutilised and piled up in landfills, ultimately contributing to pollution and environmental degradation, at Morecambe Metals, we have adopted innovative methods to refurbish, repurpose, and recycle these components.

By doing so, we not only extend the lifespan of metal parts but also minimise the need for raw materials, not to mention the energy and resources required to manufacture brand-new ones. This has an incredibly positive impact on reducing the environmental footprint of automotive production with the additional benefit of saving valuable natural resources. Through our commitment to providing vehicle recycling services, we want to prove that sustainability truly goes hand in hand with economic viability.

A car on a tower

From Scrap Metal Collection to Sustainability: All About the Recycling Journey

So, what is Morecambe Metals’ recycling journey for car parts? It begins with our efficient scrap metal collection, which helps our customers, whether domestic or trade, find the best and most convenient way of disposing of their end-of-life vehicles. After going through a thorough vehicle de-pollution process, all used components, including tyres, oil filters, and even airbags, undergo an accurate sorting process. Once this is complete, we then determine the type of metal – ferrous or non-ferrous– and its suitability for reuse, remanufacturing, or recycling.

Scrap car parts then start the process of recycling and repurposing, providing cost-effective alternatives to consumers while reducing the demand for new parts. Those components that cannot be saved are instead dismantled and separated into materials such as steel, aluminium, and plastics, which are then recycled elsewhere. We always keep precise records of how the waste is managed, which shows how dedicated we are as a company to ensuring that vehicle de-pollution has no environmental impact.

Our scrap metal services guarantee a streamlined approach where each part is handled with care and efficiency, optimising both resource recovery and waste percentage, which puts us at the forefront of sustainability.

A road surrounded by trees

Greener Roads Ahead: The Impact of Sustainable Practices

As we previously mentioned, the sustainable practices we adopt in our car scrapping services have numerous and substantial environmental benefits. Here are some main ones:

  • Lower greenhouse emissions. Diverting scrap metal parts from landfills results in less pressure on natural resources.
  • Reduced energy and water consumption. By recycling old car parts, the production of new components decreases, translating into lower use of energy and water.
  • Circular economy. The recycled metals obtained from end-of-life vehicles can be incorporated into new products, closing the loop, and reducing the need for virgin materials.

All these factors combined pave the way for a more sustainable, eco-friendly approach to the automotive industry, and we are very proud of it.

A finger touching a wooden block

An Opportunity to Participate in Recycling Responsibly

As we said initially, as consumers, we play an extremely important role in triggering the change we want to see in society. At Morecambe Metals, we are exceptionally aware of this, which is why we are dedicated to promoting sustainability by offering our comprehensive services to empower our clients to dispose of old cars responsibly and improve waste associated with the automotive industry.

We believe that by encouraging our customers to participate in recycling efforts, we are making a difference in preserving our planet. Our efforts to promote responsible metal recycling extend beyond the simple act of disposal. We strive to foster a culture of sustainability and shared responsibility to inspire broader shifts towards a more environmentally conscious society.

A hand holding a paper with a recycle symbol cut out

Let’s Drive Positive Change in Automotive with Morecambe Metals

We learned that our responsibility to contribute to a brighter future starts with disposing of our old vehicles. At Morecambe Metal, our objective is to continue prioritising environmental stewardship, leading the way towards a more eco-conscious automotive sector.

So, whether you are a car owner looking to get rid of your vehicle or a garage seeking more sustainable solutions, contact us to enquire about the convenient and eco-friendly options we offer for scrap metal recycling. Together, we will drive positive change and help the planet.

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Take a “Scrapyard Safari” and Discover Its Hidden Gems

A group of cars in a scrapyard

Have you ever thought that a scrapyard can be more than what it is and be a source of priceless exploration, innovation, and environmental responsibility? Today, we explore the endless possibilities of scrap metal, discovering how discarded metals of all sorts can find new life, purpose, and value through the most modern and sustainable practices carried out at Morecambe Metals.

From finding hidden treasures to the satisfaction of witnessing metals transformed into brand-new components thanks to practices like melting, casting, or machining, this blog will focus on the importance of recycling, highlighting how the true value of scrap metal lies in its future.

A claw grabber scooping metal scrap

Morecambe Metals: Unearthing Hidden Riches

As we venture into our Morecambe Metals scrapyard, we find a world of opportunities waiting to be discovered. Among stacks of steel alongside numerous scattered end-of-life vehicles, diverse types of metals await their next chapter. Each piece carries its story, whether it once formed part of an industrial system, an old car, or household appliances now obsolete.

Within this labyrinth of different metals, our expert team leverage their valuable resources and skills to discern the valuable components cleverly. Copper glints among the rusted relics, stainless steel defiantly resists the passing of time, and aluminium hints at its potential for lightweight strength. Every scrapyard is a place where every discovery holds potential rebirth; with our years of expertise, we transform these masses of discarded metals into brand-new raw materials ready for a new life through repurposing.

A pile of crushed metal

Metal Alchemy: from Scrap Metal to Marvels

At the core of what we do lies a series of alchemical scrap metal services. What may seem like ordinary material without value to us represents a precious source of opportunity. Through innovative processes such as the Eddy Current Separation (ECS) and advanced machinery like our modern 800-tonne shear, every piece of scrap metal is cleaned, sorted, and worked in a way that can unlock its inherent value.

First, all metals undergo a strict sorting process, separating different types of metals to ensure purity and quality. Then, it’s off to the melting pot, where the raw metals are heated to molten temperatures, ready to be moulded into new shapes and forms. Whether destined to become sturdy structural beams or components for precision machinery, each piece is carefully crafted with the utmost attention and expertise.

The transformation doesn’t end there. At Morecambe Metals, we go the extra mile by implementing groundbreaking technologies to refine and enhance recycled metals further. Thanks to techniques like alloying and tempering, the properties of the metals we deal with are optimised for specific applications, guaranteeing maximum durability and performance. What comes out of this process is not just recycled metal but a testament to resourcefulness that turns every bit into a marvel forged from these unwanted materials.

A white symbol in the middle of a forest

Circular Economy for a Sustainable Future

As a family-run business, central to our ethos is a commitment to environmental stewardship. This is why we deliver efficient scrap metal recycling services; metals (such as steel) can be recycled multiple times without losing their properties, which allows us to contribute to the environment positively. We are aware of the ecological impact of traditional mining and manufacturing processes, so aside from the recycling practice itself, we have also embraced eco-friendly methods to minimise our carbon footprint. From energy-efficient modern machinery to closed-loop recycling systems, every aspect of our operations is designed with sustainability in mind.

One of our standout practices is its emphasis on the circular economy: the idea that metals, like many other materials, should be reused and recycled indefinitely rather than being disposed of after a single use. By reintroducing scrap metal into the production cycle, we can lower the need for new materials, resulting in improved energy optimisation and reduced pollution. It’s a practical and effective solution that not only benefits the environment but also paves the way to a more sustainable future.

A group of metal containers with liquid pouring into them

The Educational Side of Metal Recycling

Our “scrapyard safari” shouldn’t just be a journey of discovery but also a great opportunity to learn more about metal recycling, a service we offer. Through sharing informative and educational content about metals and their properties, as well as explaining our diverse offerings, we constantly shed light on the metal recycling process, breaking down complex topics, such as industrial dismantling, the importance of shredding for scrap metal recycling, and the most valuable scrap metals, into easily understandable steps. Our goal is to provide valuable insights that empower businesses and individuals to make informed choices about waste management and resource conservation.

We are dedicated to constantly offering the best resources and tools when it comes to metal, whether it’s scrap metal collection or buying.

A large pile of scrap metal

Discover New Purposes for Metals with Morecambe Metals

Bring your scrap metal to us. By taking advantage of the power of recycling, at Morecambe Metals we will breathe new life into discarded metals, transforming them into valuable resources for the future.

As a fully authorised and approved waste management company, we offer a wide range of domestic and commercial solutions for managing your metal waste. From scrap metal buying and processing to repurposing, we make sure that every piece of metal finds its place in a circular economy. Contact us today to discover our complete list of services; together, we can forge a brighter, greener future, one scrap at a time.

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The Importance of Shredding for Scrap Metal Recycling

One of the must-dos to boost the circular economy and reinforce an ecological approach to industrial production is the recycling of scrap metal. A fundamental part of this process and of our strategy at Morecambe Metals is metal shredding. This process plays an essential role in both the efficacy and the sustainability of metal recycling operations, especially in an era where environmental consciousness is gaining traction on a global scale and businesses are implementing a variety of sustainable practices in their strategies.

In this article, we will explain the basics of metal shredding and its importance as a cornerstone in recycling procedures, shining a spotlight on Morecambe Metals and our advanced technologies in shredding equipment to combine efficiency and innovation.

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Understanding the Limits of Metal Recycling for Profit

In recent years, there has been a notable tightening of regulations surrounding metal recycling, a shift driven by the necessity to fight illegal practices and safeguard the environment. These regulations signal an increased awareness of the potential environmental and societal impacts of metal recycling. Stakeholders throughout the industry, from sellers to buyers, are required to maintain a thorough understanding of these evolving laws to resolve the complexities of compliance efficiently. With legal frameworks becoming increasingly stricter, staying up-to-date with regulatory updates is not easy and has become a need for businesses operating within the metal recycling sector.

In this blog, we will use our extensive expertise to explore the undeniable importance of metal recycling, the practices involved in it, and the risks of engaging in its related illegal activities.

A truck with a large pile of scrap metal
Why Is Metal Recycling Important?

Metal recycling is essential for environmental conservation. Most metals can be recycled indefinitely, promoting a circular economy and reducing the demand for sourcing new metals for every new project. This practice also makes the safe disposal of end-of-life vehicles much easier, ensuring hazardous substances like engine oil, coolant, and batteries are appropriately handled. Improper handling of such a delicate process can lead to water pollution, jeopardising natural ecosystems and aquatic life.

Engaging with licenced dealers who adhere to strict recycling protocols is then fundamental to upholding environmental standards. At Morecambe Metals, sustainability is a staple in our business, and we always prioritise environmentally responsible practices to allow all recycled metal to be processed and used efficiently, minimising any waste and environmental impact.

A shadow of a person on a wall

What Is Metal Theft and the Legal Measures to Fight It?

Metal theft poses a significant threat within the metal recycling industry. Thieves target valuable metals like aluminium, brass, and copper, often stealing them from construction sites, railways, and commercial properties. The scale of metal theft is notable, with authorities seizing hundreds of tonnes of stolen metal annually across Europe. In the UK alone, metal theft costs the economy an estimated £220 million each year.
Over the years, several legislative measures have been introduced to fight against metal theft. The Scrap Metal Dealers Act of 1964 required registration for those who wanted to start buying and selling recycled metal and required accurate record-keeping. However, despite these efforts, metal theft persisted, leading to the implementation of another act in 2013. This updated legislation introduced even stricter regulations, including mandatory seller identification, licencing requirements, and the prohibition of cash transactions. Removing cash payments has proven an effective measure in reducing metal theft incidents, with reported cases plummeting considerably afterwards.

A close-up of a person signing a document

The Licences Required to Sell Recycled Metal

As we have just learned, the process for those who want to sell scrap metal is not as simple as they may think. It’s a practice that must comply with strict regulations, and failing to do so can lead to serious legal consequences. One important aspect to touch upon is holding appropriate licences. Sellers and buyers alike must possess them to guarantee the utmost transparency and accountability in every transaction across the entire process. Whilst selling recycled metal to mobile collectors is permissible, verifying their credentials beforehand is vital. However, for a hassle-free, secure, and legally compliant transaction, selling to a registered buyer is highly recommended. Not only does this guarantee adherence to regulations, but it also often results in better prices for sellers. For those unable to transport large quantities of metal themselves, resorting to local metal collection services offered by reputable companies like ours at Morecambe Metals is a convenient option.

A person holding a tablet and a pen

Strategies for Compliance

In light of everything we have explained, selling recycled metals requires effective compliance strategies. Therefore, it is extremely important that businesses operating in this sector adopt proactive approaches to keep up with evolving laws and regulations. One effective strategy, for instance, involves investing in reliable tracking and documentation systems that can record the origin, processing, and sale of all recycled metals. These systems allow for total transparency and provide concrete evidence of compliance during regulatory audits or inspections.

Additionally, maintaining open lines of communication with authorities is essential in staying informed about updates or changes in legislation. Regular engagement with relevant agencies allows companies to clarify any ambiguities, guaranteeing full compliance. Finally, promoting a culture of compliance within the organisation through effective training programs and internal audits helps reinforce the importance of adhering to regulatory standards at every level of operations. By employing these strategies, businesses can lower the multiple risks of non-compliance and prove their commitment to responsible metal recycling practices.

Morecambe Metals as Your Fully-Licenced Metal Dealer

Following our explanations, should you need to buy or sell recycled metal, you can turn to us at Morecambe Metals. Not only do we offer a streamlined, easy process from start to finish, but we also guarantee total peace of mind by providing complete transparency in everything we do.

We possess all the required Duty of Care licences and compliant documentation, so when we buy your recycled metal, you are sure it’s a safe, authorised procedure.

If you want to learn more about our range of solutions, the processes in place, or our scrap metal buying services, contact us today; we will do our best to assist you with any specific requirement. Alternatively, for more generic questions, you can visit our FAQ page.

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The Environmentally Friendly Properties of Aluminium

Aluminium is a widely used metal across many industries. It is also one of the most commonly recycled metals globally – and for a good reason. Aluminium is a great candidate for scrap metal recycling because 100% of scrap aluminium can be recycled without losing quality. This blog will look at what aluminium is and why it’s essential in scrap metal recycling.

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Different Metals and Their Properties

Metals are some of the most widely used materials on the planet, as well as being one of the most extracted. Each metal that is extracted has different properties, and it is important to understand these so that you know if you are using that type of metal in the right application – and so that you know which ones to recycle and which ones you should scrap.

We love everything metal related, which is why we’ve come up with the most common metals that are used every day and the properties that they exhibit.

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