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What Are the Steps Used by a Scrap Metal Collector to Sort Metal?

  • Writer: Steven Brown
    Steven Brown
  • Feb 10, 2023
  • 3 min read

Metals are not capable enough to biodegrade the way organic materials are. However, you can melt them down and reuse them too. Thus, using a specialist recycling centre is an ideal way to dispose of scrap metal.


A scrap metal collector sorts metals into diverse types before taking them to the scrapyard. Through this, they make sure the most efficient recycling takes place. The way collectors sort scrap metal makes recycling easy and quicker too. This helps a collector confirm that you get the most from your recycling services.



It is to be mentioned that recycling centres mostly take various metals and metal components. However, they tend to have some restrictions. For instance, you will find some scrap metal yards that are not able to extract metals from electrical equipment. Also, some do not take certain substances like lead powder or mercury. Thus, checking is always best before you recycle.


Below are some of the major steps followed by a local scrap metal dealer for sorting scrap metal.

1. He separates the items that can be recycled

You can hand in some metal items to the recycling centre the way they are. Some of those metal items are motor parts, catalytic converters, car batteries and even vehicles.


The collector breaks down these metal items with his expertise. Through this, he makes sure as much metal as possible is extracted and processed.

2. He tests your metals using a magnet

Testing with a magnet is considered the best way to check your metal type. There are two types of metal:

  • Ferrous metal- It is magnetic

  • Non-ferrous metal- It is non-magnetic.

With this, the collector separates the two main types of metals for processing. This significantly improves the processing speed. Not only that, but also you can get the most from your recycling service through these tasks.


3. He sorts metals into different containers

After separating ferrous and non-ferrous metals, he separates them further into several types of metal. According to local scrap metal dealers in Bracknell, some types of metal are more valuable than others. Thus, separating them all makes sure to get the best return.


For instance:

  • Steel

  • Stainless steel

  • Lead

  • Iron

  • Copper

  • Brass

  • Tin

  • Aluminium

A regular collector of scrap metals often disposes of old appliances and fixtures for his customers. Thus, he installs containers to keep his ongoing collection organized and tidy.

4. He separates dirty and clean metals

Contaminated metals require extra processing. Thus, the dealer keeps contaminated metals with mud, rust, etc., separate from others.


Moreover, he separates those metal pieces that are a mixture of more than one type of metal. For instance, an aluminium pipe comes with steel screws affixed.


A professional collector of scrap metals uses all these steps. However, getting a trusted collector is immensely difficult. Having metal waste on your site, you should consider the employment of a scrap metal recycling company. It will help you dispose of the metals in an eco-friendly and safe way.


However, in Bracknell, you will find several unlicensed scrap metal companies. Here are some of the major tips you have to follow to get a reliable collector.

  • Prior to working with any dealer of scrap metals, you must be sure to review their certification carefully. Not only that, but also you have to assess his licensing status. This will make you understand that your chosen collector responsibly and legally operates.

If the dealer is professional and reliable, he will display a site license in a prominent place for public viewing. Also, if he offers mobile services, he will make the license visible on any vehicle.

  • When choosing a dealer for metal scraping, make sure he is professional, honest, and environment-friendly. You have to search for companies that secure established reputations with their quality services and competitive pricing.

Also, looking for recommendations from previous customers and online reviews is a great option. Through this, you will get a sense of which ones are reliable and trustworthy.

  • A professional dealer will provide its customers with attentive and responsive support. Some companies offer commercial waste bin services, easy collection services from several locations, etc.

It is a great indication that they make scrap removal processes straightforward and convenient by prioritizing their customers.

  • Everyone wants to sell his scrap metal for the best price possible. You will find dealers with numerous pricing and payment options like COD, pay-by-weight pricing, flat-fee pricing, etc.

Thus, you need to be sure which dealer works best for your budget and requirements.

  • Always opt for a local dealer when you are going to scrap metal. This will ensure your materials are quickly collected by the dealer efficiently according to your needs.

With this, you do not have to travel to a skip and wait longer for collection. Moreover, your scrap metals will be collected the same or the next day.

These tips will significantly assist you in getting the right scrap metal collector in Bracknell. While choosing the dealer, you must carry out an informal discussion with the dealer. Through this, you will be able to perceive the dealer's experience, expertise, and willingness.

 
 
 

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