7 steps in the process of metal recycling

The metal recycling process is a very important and useful process. It has a major advantage over the other processes. The basic properties of metal do not change even after repeated recycling over and over again. It prevents the exploitation of energy and damage to the environment. This process also generates income. If you are wondering what are the most common steps for metal recycling? Then take a look below.

We have explained the 7 most common steps for scrap metal recycling processes and how you can generate income from them. Check them out:

1. Collection

The first step of the metal recycling process is the collection. It involves only collecting the items which are made up of particular metal. The pre-existed collection points are designed containers which motivate and encourages people to recycle their used metal items. That most common point for recycling is the collection center. People just deliver their used items and receive money according to the value of the metal. The collection is the first and most important process for scrap metal recycling.

2. Sorting

After the collection process, the collected metal must be sorted into a different category based on their metals. This is a very important step because it separates the metals into a various section for further recycling processes. For example, the ferrous metals like iron and steel are separated via magnet. On the other hand, the other metals like aluminum and copper, etc. are sorted by visual inspection. Aluminum items are specially tested for quality and moisture content. There are very high standards for the sorting process because only good quality of the metal will ensure the high quality of the new product.

3. Compaction

After the sorting process, the compaction machines significantly reduce the volume of different metals. After this step, it’s easier to transfer, store and process the metals in the melting facilities.

4. Shredding

Metals are checked for any radiation and then they are transferred to the shredders for cutting, where it is shredded into smaller pieces. This process is very important because the surface area of the metal significantly increases. Therefore, it needs lesser energy for melting in comparison to the melting of larger pieces.

5. Melting

After the shredding process, the metal is transferred to be melted. The temperature of the furnace is different for different metals according to their melting points. This process consumes a huge amount of energy. However, it is the energy is not as big as the energy used in the production of the motel from the raw ore.

6. Purification process and solidification

In order to achieve the highest quality, it is very important to purify the melted material. There are many methods for the purification process like electrolysis process or by the use of magnets. These processes are used according to the type of metals. After it is poured into the molds, in order to achieve specific properties, some chemicals are also added to it. Then, it is transferred to the cooling chamber where it is cooled down.

7. Fabrication and transportation

Ingots are ready for the manufacturing process after the solidification process. The new products are manufactured in the factories and on the sites from the ingots. Various types of products like cars, cabs, building materials, foils, etc. are created from recycled metal.

About the author: Rachel Connolly is a young wife of a wonderful husband and a mother of two great daughters. She loves to write and read blog posts about all sorts of things. As a young mother, Rachel is interested in sustainable living and taking care of the planet.