4 Types of Metal That Do Not Rust

Posted on December 31, 2020 by admin

Metal is one of the most valuable, naturally-occurring resources on our planet. One of the reasons why metal has such great value to our society is due to its strength and durability. But even the strongest metals can be subjected to damage or oxidation. That is why it is important to use the right type of metal for your intended application. When it comes to applications that call for strong, rust-resistant metals, these four are your top choices.

Metals That are Resistant to Oxidation (Rusting)

► Copper

We start with copper because many industry scholars and hobbyists argue that copper is not considered a noble metal because it is not technically corrosion-resistant. They often orate that because copper is such a reactive metal in the case of oxygen exposure, it is not a good fit for the definition of an anti-corrosive metal. Basically, copper will not rust because it does not contain any iron content, however, it can be subjected to certain deterioration when it reacts with oxygen. It does develop a green patina overtime, which will protect the copper from further corrosion.

► Stainless Steel

There is a very good reason why the majority of all modern-day kitchens are equipped with stainless steel appliances, such as refrigerators, microwaves, dish washing machines, stoves, and even plumbing fixtures like faucets. The very good reason is that stainless steel will not rust when exposed to moisture or water, like many other kinds of metals would. Even though stainless steel usually does contain some traces of iron, which should technically make the steel prone to oxidation, they are mostly resistant because they contain high ratios of chromium. Chromium is more reactive than iron, so it quickly oxidizes, thus creating a protective chromium oxide coating on the stainless steel. Furthermore, stainless steel often contains other rust-resistant alloys, like nickel and molybdenum, strengthening its resistance against oxidation.

► Aluminum

Aluminum metal is used in various industries and applications all across the globe, and it’s due to its two most valuable properties: light weight and resistance to corrosion. Commodities like airplanes, automobiles, bikes, building materials, and more are all manufactured with high aluminum content. The reason why aluminum is a terrific option for an anti-corrosion metal is because it contains very little, or even no iron content, making it stand up against conditions that cause rust. When exposed to moisture, a layer of aluminum oxide forms on the surface, protecting the metal from oxidation and corrosion.

► Galvanized Metal

Since steel metal is not naturally resistant to rusting, often times it must be galvanized for an added layer of protection. Galvanized carbon steel stands up well against conditions that commonly cause it to oxidize. Galvanization is the process of coating steel with zinc, which acts as a barrier against water and oxygen. This is known as cathodic protection. Like aluminum and chromium, the zinc reacts fast to oxygen, and creates a zinc oxide layer on the surface of steel.

How to Sell Your Rusty Steel and Iron Scrap Metal in Indiana

Call Zore’s Recycling division at 317-244-0700 to get paid cash on the spot with our Indianapolis metal recycling services and opportunities. We have been a family owned and operated company for over 75 years, and continue to make customer satisfaction our number one goal in our metal recycling division. And to make recycling easier for you, we offer several customer conveniences at no extra charge! Request a free estimate, today.

4 Common Metals That are Easy to Recycle

Posted on June 30, 2020 by admin

The amount of metal used in our society is astronomical on a global scale. That is because metal is a highly-useful and beneficial commodity that can be applied in infinite industries, from automotive manufacturing and construction, to food service, plumbing, electrical, medical equipment, and more. If you are interested in doing your part to preserve our planet’s natural resources and reduce our need to mine for new ores, your best course of action is to start a metal recycling initiative at home and in the office!

Although all metal is 100% recyclable, there are some metals that are easier to come by than others. Continue reading to learn the top 4 easiest metals to get started with when it comes to recycling.

Indianapolis Scrap Metal Buyers 317-244-0700

Aluminum

Do you have some food or soup cans laying around? These are likely made from aluminum! If not, they are made of tin, which is also entirely recyclable and reusable. Additional sources of aluminum scrap include car parts, metal patio furniture, mailboxes, sheet metal, bicycles, pots and pans, window frames, and some plumbing fixtures like sinks and faucets.

Steel

Steel is perhaps the number one most recycled metal in the United States. In fact, before Eco-friendly practices were trendy, steel was being recycling regularly. Not only does steel recycle require a fraction of the energy needed to recycle other materials, it does not lose any of its valuable properties in the process. This means steel can be recycled and reused over and over again.

Lead

Lead might not be something we want in our water, but it is something we want to recycle as often as possible. Common sources of recyclable lead include automotive batteries, including batteries for other types of motorized things, like motorbikes, bulldozers, golf carts, scooters, boats, and more. It is important to properly dispose of lead materials by recycling them because it can be harmful to the surrounding environment if leaked.

Copper

The most common sources of copper that can be recycled are electronics and cookware. If you have old pots and pans made from copper, you have a decent freight of recyclable metal. Other sources include anything with a computer or circuit board, as well as, electrical wiring. Some gutter systems and roofing materials are also made from copper, and can be recycled over and over again.

A Trusted Indianapolis Metal Recycling Company That Pays You Cash

Call Zore’s Recycling division at 317-244-0700 to recycle metal in Indianapolis, Indiana for cash. We have been a family owned and operated company for over 75 years, and continue to make customer satisfaction our number one goal in our metal recycling division. And to make recycling easier for you, we offer several customer conveniences at no extra charge! Request a free estimate, today.

Comparing Stainless Steel to Aluminum Metal

Posted on September 16, 2015 by admin

Since stainless steel and aluminum look so similar, many people believe they are the same type of metal. But this, of course, is not true. Although stainless steel and aluminum are used in similar industries, their qualities are different in many ways. Continue reading to learn some fun facts about both these metals, and the primary difference between them.

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Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a steel alloy used for several reasons, and in several industries. It is highly resistant to corrosion, tarnishing, and rust. The most common uses for stainless steel include food handling and processing, surgical instruments, medical devices, air crafts, appliances, hardware, and more. The common alloying ingredient in stainless steel is chromium, but nickel, copper, manganese, iron and molybdenum are also used. Stainless steel usually contains anywhere from 15% to 30% alloy content.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a silvery-gray, light-weight, non-magnetic metal used in countless industries and for several purposes. The most well-known use for aluminum is food and soda cans. But aside from canned goods, aluminum is also widely used in the automaker and aerospace industry for its ductile, corrosion-resistant qualities and more.

Comparisons

As for strength and weight, steel is stronger and weighs more. Aluminum is only one-third the weight of stainless steel, but this is why it is top-choice for automotive and aerospace manufacturing.

Both metals are highly-resistant to corrosion, but since stainless steel is non-porous, it is more resistant than aluminum.

Both metals are also good thermal and electrical conductors, but aluminum retains higher thermal conductivity. This is why it is used to manufacture things like car radiators and air conditioner units.

In terms of malleability, aluminum takes the cake. It is much softer and easier to work with compared to stainless steel. On the other hand, stainless steel is much easier to weld than aluminum.

As for price, aluminum is much cheaper.

Remember to recycle your unwanted scrap aluminum and steel metal!

Zore’s Recycling

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 to recycle aluminum in Indianapolis, as well as, all other metals you wish to discard. We accept all metals, including copper, steel, iron, precious metals, and more! Recycle old appliances, electronics, power tools, cars, water-crafts, and more for fast cash on the spot. We pay top-dollar for your scrap metal! Call 317-244-0700 to evaluate the worth of your scrap metal in Indianapolis, IN.