We are fortunate as a society to have succeeded in developing several new advancements in recycling technology. Today, we have the innovative equipment and industrial resources to responsibly recycle more items than ever before! It is important to have an eco-friendly agenda in order to preserve our natural resources, and metal recycling is a great place to start if you are new to the initiative! Continue reading to learn the 3 primary categories of metal, and which items around the house fall into these particular groups.

Metal Recycling Center 317-244-0700

❶ Ferrous Metal

Ferrous metal is any metal that contains iron. In fact, the term “ferrous” comes from the Latin word ferrum, which translate to iron. Iron-containing metal is very strong and durable, and retains varying degrees of resistance to corrosion. However, it can be prone to oxidation (rust). The most common examples of ferrous metal include iron, cast iron, and wrought iron, as well as, steel, mild steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, HSLA steel, tool steel, and stainless steel. You can identify a ferrous metal by testing its magnetic properties. When a metal object is magnetic, it contains iron. If you are looking for ferrous metals to recycle around the house or at work, consider these items:

— Cars
— Trucks
— Mechanical Auto Parts
— Construction Equipment
— Farming Equipment— Large-Scale Piping
— Industrial Containers
— Cast Iron Skillets
— Older Radiators
— Plumbing Pipes
— Tools
— Hardware
— Metal Fixtures and Hinges
— Knives
— Steel Food Cans
— Steel Coffee Cans
— Steel Casing or Framing in Appliances (i.e. refrigerators, ovens and dishwashers)

❶ Non-Ferrous Metal

Non-ferrous metal is any metal that does not contain iron. They are revered for their high conductivity levels, as well as their malleability and versatility. They also have a higher resistance to rust and corrosion because they do not contain any iron compounds. You can distinguish a ferrous metal from a non-ferrous metal by using a magnet. If it is not magnetic, then it is non-ferrous. You can remember this with the saying, non-magnetic equals non-ferrous. There are many types of metals that do not contain iron, including copper, tin, aluminum, cobalt, zinc, chromium, nickel, brass, tungsten, titanium, lead, and even precious metal, which is our 3rd category! Here are some common household and commercial items that are non-ferrous recyclable metals:

— Foil
— Soup Cans
— Food Cans
— Electrical Wiring
— Small Electronics
— Plumbing Pipes
— Building Materials
— Bronze/Brass Décor
— Medical and Scientific Equipment
— Car Batteries
— Costume Jewelry
— And More

❶ Precious Metals

Precious metals are the last category of recyclable metals. They are rare, naturally-occurring, and retain high economic value. These include gold, silver, platinum, zirconium, palladium, tungsten, cobalt, ruthenium, rhodium, iridium, osmium, rhenium, indium, electrum (a naturally-occurring alloy of silver and gold) and more. Because of their high value and corrosion-resistant qualities, precious metals are commonly used in the jewelry and currency industries. They also have certain industrial applications. Precious metals can be found in several household items, including:

— Jewelry
— Smartphones
— Major Appliances
— Small Appliances
— Gaming Consoles
— Computers
— Televisions
— Décor
— Coin Collections
— Trophies
— Plate Ware
— Catalytic Converters
— And More

You Can Recycle Metal for Cash in Indianapolis!

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700