Tips On Sorting & Cleaning Scrap Metal Before Selling It To A Recycling Facility
Whether you’re an experienced scrapper or someone who is looking to sell & recycle scrap metal for the first time, there are always some things you can do to ensure you’re getting paid the most possible for your scrap metal! One of the best ways to maximize the value of your scrap metal (in the eyes of a scrap metal recycling facility) is to clean all the residue off your scrap metal and sort it into piles according to the types of metal each item is made of. In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how you can effectively clean and sort your scrap metal! If you have any questions about scrap metal recycling or if you’re looking to sell any kind of scrap metal in the Greater Boston area, please contact our team at Second Street Iron & Metal today to sell your metals for the best prices in the region!
How To Sort & Clean Your Scrap Metal
When you take the time to sort and clean your scrap metal, you’ll likely earn a bit more money for it, so it’s typically worth it to do so before bringing your scrap metal to your local recycling facility! Below are some tips on how you can clean and sort your scrap metal:
- Separate Ferrous & Non-Ferrous Metals: One simple way to start the scrap metal sorting process is by using a magnet. Ferrous metals, like steel and iron, will be attracted to the magnet, making them easy to identify. Non-ferrous metals, such as copper, aluminum, and brass, won’t stick to the magnet. This quick test helps you separate the two types for better recycling value.
- Clean Your Metals: Dirt, grease, or other contaminants can lower the value of your scrap. Use wire brushes, solvents, or high-pressure water to clean your metals.
- Prepare Large Pieces: Cut large pieces of metal into smaller, more manageable sizes for easier transportation. Saws or metal shears work well for this task.
- Strip Copper Wires: Stripping insulation from copper wires or removing attachments from metal frames can significantly boost the scrap’s value. For tips on how you can strip copper wire, click here to visit our blog!
- Store Scrap Safely: Keep your scrap in a dry, covered area to prevent rust or contamination. If indoor storage isn’t available, use tarps or metal containers for protection.
- Organize By Type: For non-ferrous metals, separate them based on type and purity. Clean metals free from paint or attachments will typically be worth more. Label and organize your bins for easy sorting and to maximize your profit!
Contact Second Street Iron & Metal to Sell Scrap Metal in the Greater Boston Area!
If you have any questions about scrap metal recycling or if you are looking to sell scrap metal in the Greater Boston area, Second Street Iron & Metal in Everett, MA, is here for you! We strive to provide our clients with the best prices for all kinds of scrap metal, including copper, brass, steel, iron, aluminum, and more! Give us a call at (617) 387-1188 or fill out the contact form on our website, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
