How to Recycle Non-Ferrous Metal

Non-ferrous metal is simply metal or alloy that does not contain iron. The term, ferrous, actually means iron, so you can always remember the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metal. Some examples of non-ferrous metal include aluminum, copper, brass, lead, titanium, nickel, and most precious metals.

Continue reading to learn more facts about nonferrous metal, including what you need to know about recycling nonferrous metals in your town. 

Indianapolis Scrap Metal Buyers
Indianapolis Scrap Metal Buyers 317-247-8484

Ferrous vs. Non-Ferrous Metal

Before you can start collecting nonferrous metals for recycling purposes, you must be able to confirm which commodities are ferrous and which are not. In order to distinguish ferrous from non-ferrous metals, you must perform a manual test. To do this test, all you need is a strong magnet. You can use a simple refrigerator magnet, or a stronger one available at local home improvement stores or online vendors like Amazon. You see, ferrous metals retain magnetic qualities, and non-ferrous metals do not. So, if a magnet sticks to your object, it contains iron, and therefore, is ferrous metal. If the magnet does not attract, the object does not contain iron, which means it is not ferrous.

Why Recycle Non-Ferrous Metal?

Why recycle non-ferrous metals? Well, just like iron and steel, non-ferrous metals are 100% recyclable and can be repurposed over and over again. Although they do not contain iron, nonferrous metal retains higher conductivity levels, making them vital assets in various industries all over the world. Furthermore, recycling these metals and commodities can help preserve our natural ores, and reduce mining efforts and emissions. To top of all the wonderful environmental benefits of metal recycling, you can even make some money if you recycle at the right center!

Locating Non-Ferrous Objects

To begin your collect of non-ferrous metals, start by looking in your own home. Storage areas, like basements, sheds, attics, and garages, are the perfect place to look for unwanted junk. Use your magnet to locate the objects that do not contain iron. Common examples of non-ferrous items include catalytic converters, computers, electrical wiring, jewelry, instruments, metal art, sculptures, cables, cutlery, serving dishes, and power tools.

Non-Ferrous Metals:
➣ Copper
➣ Aluminum
➣ Brass
➣ Lead
➣ Tin
➣ Titanium
➣ Zinc
➣ Nickel

Non-Ferrous Precious Metals:
➣ Gold
➣ Silver
➣ Platinum
➣ Cobalt
➣ Bismuth
➣ Beryllium
➣ Zirconium
➣ Cadmium
➣ Mercury
➣ Tungsten

How to Recycle Metal Near You

It is very important to choose the right metal recycling center in your town in order to reap the most benefits from your bounty. First, a reputable metal recycler will have the proper equipment and resources to sustainably recycle materials and distribute them with ecological efficiency. Second, a reputable center will pay you cash on the spot for your scrap metal! Even better, they may offer free pickup if you are recycling larger items, such as junk cars, appliances, boats, and similar items.

Who to Trust for Superior Indiana Metal Recycling?

Call Zore’s Inc. at 317-247-8484 to recycle scrap metal for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana. We pay top dollar for all metals, regardless of age or condition. We buy vehicles, equipment, sheet metal, electrical wiring, computers, auto parts, power tools, appliances, and much more. And we guarantee to pay you cash on the spot!