How to identify ferrous metal - Metals and their processing

How to identify non-ferrous metal

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Probably everyone had to hold in their hands a piece of jewelry or another object, obviously metal.

But how can you determine what metal is used in production? It could be a precious material or a counterfeit, or even a trinket with no claims to value. Expertise from specialists will give you the exact answer, but it is not free.

But there are methods for approximately determining the type of metal at home. They were used a long time ago, but they have not lost their relevance in our time.

Magnet check

Bringing a magnet close to the item being tested is a good way to perform initial testing. By the reaction of the magnet you can determine which group the metal belongs to:

Ferromagnets. The magnet is clearly attracted to the object, which means that the product may contain iron, steel or nickel.
Paramagnetic materials. The interaction with the magnet is very weak. This group includes aluminum and chrome. Precious metals that are paramagnetic are platinum, palladium and silver.
Diamagnets. In general, they do not react to magnets. Copper and zinc have these properties. Precious metals - gold.

Of course, such a check will not allow us to accurately determine the material from which the item is made. After all, a non-magnetic metal may not be in its pure form, but in the form of an alloy with a ferromagnet. But it can confirm or refute the assumption. For example, if it is checked whether it is gold or not, but the item is clearly magnetic, then it can be argued that it is a fake.

When checking jewelry, you should take into account that, in addition to precious metals, they may contain clasps, built-in springs, made of another material. You need to check the metal itself.

Heat check

You can also determine the group of a metal by how it conducts heat. It is known that the thermal conductivity of silver is very high. It is almost five times higher than that of iron or platinum. Slightly worse for gold, copper and aluminum. Platinum transfers heat even weaker than iron.

If you immerse the metal in hot water for 15–20 seconds, then based on its temperature, determined by touch, you can draw some conclusions.

Gold and silver objects will become as hot as the water in which they were dipped.
During this time, platinum and items containing iron will become warm, but not hot.

In this way it is easy to distinguish platinum from silver. But it’s not possible to compare silver or aluminum alloy.

Iodine test

You can check the authenticity of the metal using an iodine solution purchased at a pharmacy. A drop of iodine is applied to the surface and left for several seconds. Iodine will not harm noble metals - gold, platinum, silver. If the color of a drop of iodine does not change, and after removing it with a napkin, no traces or stains remain, this indicates the authenticity of the metal. If darkening is visible at the place of the drop, then this is a low-quality alloy or an outright fake.

Vinegar test

Household vinegar solution also does not affect precious metals. And it is dangerous for counterfeits. But, unlike the iodine test, acetic acid takes time. To wait for the result, you need to immerse the metal being tested in a container with vinegar for 15–30 minutes. The absence of traces of interaction between metal and vinegar is a sign of nobility.

If, in addition to metal, the product contains precious or semi-precious stones, then it is better not to check them this way; vinegar can ruin them. This is especially true for pearls.

Source: https://vi-pole.ru/kak-opredelit-cvetnoj-metall.html

How to determine the category of scrap metal?

Payment for an unsorted batch of scrap metal is usually set by the receiver at the level of the cheapest grade. Naturally, the maximum benefit from the delivery of recycled ferrous metal can be obtained by first preparing the scrap according to the established categories. The main types of ferrous metal waste are determined by GOST 2787-75 and are slightly modified at collection points, for example, for railway or automobile scrap.

Principles for constructing categories

The classification of recycled ferrous metals is carried out in accordance with GOST, based on the following characteristics of scrap metal: carbon content, quality grade of recyclable materials and the presence of alloying additives, their type, concentration. Since the most popular scrap metal is unalloyed iron, the category of waste is determined by two parameters: the type of iron and the quality (final form) of the scrap.

Based on carbon content, there are two classes: recycled steel (no more than 2.14%) and cast iron scrap. The quality classification is more diverse and includes 28 types. A characteristic feature of the quality distribution of ferrous metal scrap is its orderliness: the first 16 classes are reserved for steel waste.

The scrap metal category designation contains three components. The first component is the number of the type (quality) of recyclable materials, according to GOST. The following symbol corresponds to the presence of alloying impurities: A – carbon metals without additives, B – alloyed. The third parameter, auxiliary (not established by GOST), indicates a specific type of scrap metal, for example railway - railway.

This classification makes it easy to determine the type of metal:

1A – 16A – steel waste;

14A – 24A – cast iron scrap.

The remaining four classes are reserved for low-grade scrap metal and are not particularly popular.

Qualitative characteristics of waste

As stated earlier, high demand is exclusively for carbon scrap, without alloying additives. This is due to GOST requirements for the acceptance of alloyed scrap metal, which prohibit the presence in the batch of fragments with a different chemical composition (grade).

The determining element of the cost of ferrous metal scrap is its quality, which is classified into the following types:

compressed bags made of lightweight structures;

cast iron and steel shavings in bulk or briquetted form;

unsorted recyclables.

An additional characteristic of recycled cast iron is its phosphorus content. Scrap metal with a high concentration of this element is classified into separate categories. Considering the significant (double) difference in cost, shavings and wire are less popular and are not accepted by all points, leaving the palm to lump recyclables.

Most Common Categories of Ferrous Recycled Metal

Among steel scrap, categories are very popular, which, in principle, you need to distinguish between before handing over scrap metal:

3A – dimensional recyclables, with size restrictions of 800 (some collection points allow 1500) x 500 x 500 mm. The category includes pipes with a diameter of up to 150 mm (accepted in one piece). If the size is exceeded, the pipe must be opened at the seam or flattened.

Metal cut to size - a typical representative of category 3A

5A - oversized steel scrap, wall thickness must exceed 4 mm, solid pipes with a diameter of over 150 mm are allowed.

In the photo, scrap category 5A - any oversized steel scrap

12A – waste steel up to 4 mm thick.

The profiled sheet will be classified as category 12A - tin

Recycled steel has additional subcategories established at collection points (not included in GOST). For example, 3AP – railway scrap, including rails. Category 3AN concentrates large scissor waste.

Oversized rail recyclables, including wheel sets, are classified as grade 5AP - by the way, one of the most expensive types of scrap metal. Scrap of motor vehicles, construction and agricultural equipment contains category 12AN. The equipment must be deregistered by the traffic police.

This also includes broken household appliances: washing machines, refrigerators, etc.

The most common types of cast iron scrap metal are:

17A – cast iron scrap with size restrictions of 1500x500x500 mm

20A – oversized cast iron waste.

Oversized cast iron scrap

19A/22A – recycled cast iron with a high phosphorus content, usually heating batteries, plumbing products.

All scrap metal must be free of non-metallic inclusions, free of flammable substances, and not rusty.

Source: http://xlom.ru/vidy-metalloloma/kak-opredelit-kategoriyu-metalloloma/

How to distinguish stainless steel from ferrous metal?

How to distinguish one steel grade from another if, for example, AISI 304 and AISI 303 sheets were stored together? A number of simple, inexpensive and non-damaging tests can help solve this problem. It should be noted right away that such tests have a number of serious limitations.

For example, such tests will not help determine which of two sheets of steel of the same grade has been heat treated and which has not. Additionally, there is no easy way to distinguish certain grades of steel from each other. For example, it is impossible to distinguish steel AISI 304 (08Х18Н10) from AISI 316L (03Х17Н14М3), or 304 (08Х18Н10) from 304L (03Х18Н11).

A molybdenum content test will help determine whether molybdenum is present in steel, but without additional information the grade of steel cannot be correctly determined. For example, AISI 316 (10Х17Н13М2) steel, based solely on the results of this test, can be defined as 316L (03Х17Н14М3), 2205 or 904L.

Often, only with the help of more complex tests, in which the metal is exposed to chemical reagents, strength or heat resistance is checked, can the grade of steel be reliably determined. If simple tests do not help, then a full spectral or chemical analysis in the laboratory cannot be avoided.

Reaction to magnet

This test will help determine that austenitic steels (for example, AISI 300 series) do not react to a magnet when approaching it. Other stainless steels, such as ferritic, martensitic and duplex, react to magnets. When performing this test, it should be remembered that some austenitic steels, for example, 304 (08Х18Н10), can be attracted by a magnet if they were produced by cold rolling.

Reaction to nitric acid

Helps differentiate carbon steel from stainless steel. First, you need to place a steel sample in a solution of nitric acid (from 20-50%) at room temperature, or drop the solution onto a clean steel surface.

A reaction will begin on the surface of the carbon steel, releasing caustic brown vapor. This reaction does not occur with stainless steel.

When working with nitric acid, you must be extremely careful, and you should not inhale the vapors released during the reaction.

Molybdenum content test

Helps determine whether steel contains molybdenum. Steel containing sufficiently molybdenum, for testing as follows: 316 (10x17n13M2), 316L (03x17N14M3), 444, 904L, 2205, all "super -duplicate" alloys (S32760, Zeron 100, S32750, 2507, S32550, S32520, UR52N+).

The test can also determine molybdenum in other steels containing approximately 2% Mo. When conducting a test, it is best to compare an unknown steel with a control sample, for example, AISI 304 (08Х18Н10) and AISI 316 (10Х17Н13М2) steels.

For the test you will need an acid-based reagent (you can use either the American “Decapoli 304/316” or “Moly Drop 960”, or domestic analogues, although they are quite difficult to find). First, it is necessary to prepare the surface of the test sample by cleaning it with sandpaper.

Then drop the reagent onto the surface of the steel to be determined and onto the control sample. Dark yellow spots appearing after 2-4 minutes indicate the presence of molybdenum. When carrying out the test, do not forget that its reliability may be affected by the temperature of the samples.

For example, some steels containing about 0.5% molybdenum in impurities may react positively to the test at low temperatures. During the test, you should be careful when working with the reagent and follow the requirements for safe work with acids.

Sulfur content test

Sulfur is a harmful impurity that causes brittleness of steel during hot forming. This test helps determine the level of sulfur in steel. For this test, control samples of AISI CS1020, S1214, 304 or 303 steels will be needed, comparison with which will help in determining the degree of sulfur content.

To carry out the test, it is necessary to clean the surface of the test sample using sandpaper, and control samples should be prepared in the same way.

Next, you should soak the photographic paper in a 3% sulfuric acid solution for 3 minutes, apply the photographic paper face to the surface of the test sample, hold for 5 seconds and compare the results of the tested steel and the control samples. A dark brown stain indicates high sulfur content.

When testing, it should be taken into account that the reliability of the result is seriously influenced by the density and duration of contact of the paper with the surface. When performing this test, also remember to be careful when working with acid.

Source: https://varimtutru.com/kak-otlichit-nerzhaveyku-ot-chernogo-metalla/

How to identify non-ferrous metal | ScrapTsvetmet

Tsvetmet price per 1 kg	wholesale	retail
Copper Mix is not graded	360	350
Copper Mix tinned	320	300
Lump copper from 3 mm. not el.tech. "D"	365	360
Copper Varietal burnt from 0.5 mm “F”	365	360
Copper Electrical copper shiny from 0.5 mm “A”	370	360
Electrical copper busbar “G”	365	360
Copper shavings	300	279
Copper radiators	200	180
Copper rod "K"	360	350
SCRAP Enamel wire from 0.5 mm.	355	350
Copper	200	180
Brass	170	160
Aluminum	40	30
Aluminum-copper	120	110
Stainless steel gr.3B26 (Ni 9-11%)	55	50
Stainless steel gr.3B26 (Ni 8-9%)	45	40
Stainless steel Low alloy (Ni 6-7%)	20	15
Stainless steel Low alloy (Ni 4-5%)	15	10
Stainless steel shavings, gr. 3B26	30	25
Duralumin	80	70
Aluminum Mix	77	70
Aluminum profile	95	88
Aluminum Food Grade	97	90
Electrotechnical	100	90
Aluminum can	55	40
Aluminum Motor	80	70
Offset sheets	90	85
Aluminum radiators	40	30
Car wheels (aluminum)	40	30
Aluminum shavings	20	20
Lead clean cable sheath	95	90
Lead dirty cable sheath	85	80
Polypropylene batteries	55	50
Ebonite batteries	40	30
Helium batteries	55	50
Lead Weights	55	50
Lead remelting	90	80
Lead Garth typographic	35	45
Lump lead scrap	100	95
LEAD IN PIGS	90	85
Reception of untreated aluminum cable	70	60
Reception of cleaned aluminum cable	100	90
Reception of untreated copper cable	280	250
Reception of cleaned copper cable	320	300
Reception of annealed copper cable	310	300
Hand over copper wire up to 1 mm	60	60
Hand over copper wires from 1.5 to 4 mm	60	60
Hand over copper wires from 4 mm	210	210
Reception of lead sheathed cable	150	100
Internet cable reception	35	70
Hand over telephone cable in lead 72 diameter	100	110
Hand over the telephone cable in lead 22 diameter	100	110
Hand over telephone cable in lead 52 diameter	100	110
Hand over the telephone cable in PVC 12 diameter	40	45
We accept telephone cable in PVC 0.8 diameter	40	45
We accept telephone cable in black plastic 10-19 diameter	35	45
We accept telephone cable in black plastic 55 diameter	100	110
Cables for fire alarm systems KPSVV, ng-LS, KPSVEV, ng-LS, JY (ST), KPSEng(A)-Fli for fire alarm systems KPSVV, ng-LS, KPSVEV, ng-LS, JY (ST), KPSEng (A)-FRLSRLS	Check	Check
Accept installation wires	Check	Check
Hand over optical cable	Check	Check
Return the power cable	Check	Check
SCRAP CAR BATTERIES	60	55
SCRAP BATTERIES FROM UPS	58	53
SCRAP TRACTION BATTERIES	60	50
ALUMINUM CANS	40	30
Brass piece	210	200
Brass Mix Varietal	210	200
Brass radiators	220	200
Brass filings	160	150
Waste brass grades L63, L68, L70, L80	220	210
COPPER MIX	310	300
COPPER PAD (MIX)	290	270
COPPER PIECE	320	310
COPPER SHINE	370	360
COPPER SHAVINGS	260	250
COPPER RADIATORS	200	180
BRASS RADIATORS	170	150
BRASS SHAVINGS	120	110
DUARAL	65	60
ALUMINUM MIX	65	60
FOOD FOOD ALUMINUM	93	83
ALUMINUM PROFILE	90	80
ELECTRICAL ALUMINUM	100	90
MOTOR ALUMINUM	65	62
ALUMINUM SHAVINGS	70	65
Aluminum radiators	40	30
OFFSET SHEETS	85	80
LEAD PURE CABLE SHEATH	95	90
LEAD DIRTY CABLE COVER	85	80
LEAD REmelted	90	80
Pass Bronze Mix	230	200
Hand over bronze shavings	180	170
BRONZE SHAVINGS	180	170

THIS IS INTERESTING: How alloys differ from pure metals

There are many ways to determine non-ferrous metals. The use of a specific method depends on the tasks and questions that need to be answered when determining the presence, type and content of non-ferrous metal in products, waste and scrap.

In what cases is it necessary to determine non-ferrous metals?

The need to determine non-ferrous metals arises in many cases, for example:

determination of metal content in ore;
establishing the quality characteristics of metals during melting;
establishing the grade of metal or alloy in semi-finished products;
determination of the content, physical and chemical properties of metals in the production of finished products or substances;
establishing the type, grade and content of metal when accepting secondary resources;
establishing parameters for non-ferrous metal scrap during processing;
determination of the degree of contamination of the work area and the environment;
determination of the degree of danger of substances and other cases.

For example, in order to hand over stainless steel to LOMTSVETMET, you need to make sure that this metal is such, and thus the need for a definition arises.

Basic methods for determining non-ferrous metals

Depending on which of the listed problems need to be solved, one (or several) methods for determining non-ferrous metals are selected.

Laboratory method. The examination of samples of metals and other substances is carried out by certified laboratories, fully equipped with the necessary instruments, equipment, reagents and other consumables. This is the most accurate way to determine the presence, types, concentration of non-ferrous metals. It is used primarily in mining, mineral processing, metallurgy, nuclear energy, to carry out studies of working conditions and environmental pollution.
Determination of the chemical composition, grades of metals and alloys using metal analyzers. There are stationary and portable (mobile) devices that use different operating principles:
- laser (used in optical emission analyzers);
- X-ray (used in X-ray fluorescence analyzers).

The devices are used to analyze the chemical composition of a wide variety of materials. They determine with high accuracy a wide range of elements contained in the substance under study.

They are widely used for incoming inspection, for sorting non-ferrous scrap metal, for quality control of manufactured products, for express analysis when confirming grades of metals and alloys, including precious ones.

Analyzers are also used for analyzing ores, soils in geological exploration, and for environmental monitoring.

Visual identification of types of metals and alloys. This is the least accurate method, which, however, requires certain knowledge about the types and basic properties of non-ferrous metals and their alloys. Determining the types of metals “by eye” is used mainly in the collection and primary sorting of scrap non-ferrous metals.
Magnetic scrap metal separation is used to physically separate iron scrap, which is attracted by a magnetic field, from non-ferrous metals. Used for primary sorting of scrap metal at receiving sites.

Any of the presented methods has the right to exist. For collection and primary sorting of scrap, a visual determination of the composition of recyclable materials is sufficient. When accepting metal, more accurate methods are needed, which are carried out using compact, mobile, relatively inexpensive devices. Portable analyzers are also used in cases where it is not possible to use stationary equipment and the services of specialized laboratories at the research site.

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Source: https://lom-cvetmet.ru/stati/kak-opredelit-cvetnoj-metall/

How to independently determine the composition of scrap metal

Such difficulties are usually faced by those who first decided to start procuring scrap ferrous and non-ferrous metals. After all, it’s a shame to spend your energy searching and preparing aluminum and only get pennies for it, since you confused it with ordinary steel. After all, they pay significantly less for the procurement of scrap ferrous metals.

How to identify black scrap

Of course, when purchasing scrap ferrous metals, collection points pay significantly less than for copper or bronze. But finding and preparing steel scrap is much easier. The first thing you should do before taking the found scrap metal to a ferrous metal scrap purchase point is to attach a magnet to it. Since steel contains iron, such scrap will be highly magnetic.

But there are also exceptions. For example, some grades of stainless steel have magnetic properties, although when purchased it is usually regarded as non-ferrous scrap. Nickel, which belongs to the category of non-ferrous metal, is also attracted by the magnet, although many collection points would dream of purchasing it at the price of ferrous scrap.

The presence of a large amount of iron gives the alloy another property - a tendency to corrosion. Since most scrap metal is exposed to the open air for a long time before reaching the point of procurement, processing and sale of ferrous metal scrap, it can be recognized by rust - traces of corrosion.

Definition of non-ferrous scrap metal

Purchasing non-ferrous metals in Moscow and St. Petersburg, as well as other large cities, is a huge industry in which there is a place for unscrupulous acceptors. Since the prices for purchasing ferrous metals are lower than those of non-ferrous metals, you need to be able to independently determine at least the basic metals of this category.

Copper. This metal has a natural red-pink color, but when left in the open air for a long time, it darkens, and when it stays in the ground, a greenish-brown coating can form on it - a consequence of corrosion.

Since the purchase price of copper-based non-ferrous metals - bronze and brass - is lower, you need to be able to accurately identify this element. The easiest way to do this is using a fresh cut or slice. File the surface area until it shines and wait until the metal begins to oxidize.

A bluish-green coating forms on the surface of the copper - an oxide film.

Bronze. At the purchase price of non-ferrous scrap, this metal is valued immediately after copper, and even looks similar to it. Bronze can be identified by its lower ductility than copper. By pressing on the metal with keys or another hard object, you can easily make a notch in the copper element, and the bronze will retain its integrity. Also, bronze is practically not subject to patination - oxidation with the formation of a greenish-blue film on the surface, like copper.

Brass. When purchasing scrap non-ferrous metals, brass is usually identified by color and sound. It is lighter in color than copper and makes a ringing sound when struck. True, oxidized and contaminated bronze develops a dark coating on the surface, and the metal itself may lose its sonority. Then you can determine the element by dropping a little hydrochloric acid solution onto the surface - a white coating will appear on the bronze.

Aluminum. The main indicators by which aluminum and its alloys are determined at points of purchase of non-ferrous and ferrous metals are low weight and good ductility. If you sand or file the surface of aluminum, it will have a silvery, mirror-like shine that quickly darkens when exposed to atmospheric oxygen.

If you remember these simple rules and learn to distinguish between elements, then you can make good money by handing over scrap metal, for example, to the collection, processing and sale of scrap ferrous and non-ferrous metals of the Artex company. It should be remembered that collecting scrap metal is not only profit, but also an important step in preserving and improving the environment.

Source: http://www.arteks-metall.ru/articles/kak-samostoyatelno-opredelit-sostav-metalloloma

Categories of scrap metal - what categories scrap metal is divided into

Scrap and waste metals are used as raw materials in metallurgical production, the technology of which imposes its own requirements on the raw materials. Therefore, the collected scrap metal is sorted in accordance with a number of conditions put forward by production according to several parameters.

Scrap metal begins to be sorted when it arrives at the collection point. During the acceptance process, it is divided into groups, separating non-ferrous and ferrous metals from each other. Non-ferrous metal is immediately divided by type.

The group of ferrous metals includes:

cast iron (worn out, used metal products, equipment, shavings, casting waste)
iron (broken products, production waste)
stainless steel (metal products containing more than 10% nickel, obsolete, production and processing waste)

Scrap metal categories

lead (cables, battery plates, etc.)
aluminum (wire, duralumin, other aluminum alloys, used aluminum products, containers, dishes, packaging, etc.)
copper (used metal products, shavings, other metalworking waste, copper cables, dishes)
copper alloys (bronze, brass used parts, products, waste, tombac)
titanium (titanium alloys, waste metal products, ship and aircraft scrap)
magnesium (aircraft parts, etc.)
rare earth metals (waste from high-tech industries, complex alloys)
semiconductor scrap

silver (battery plates, used jewelry, silverware, coins, contact silver, catalysts, etc.)
gold (used jewelry, radio waste, watches, etc.)
platinum (chemical industry equipment, electric heaters, jewelry, catalysts, etc.)

This completes the scrap metal sorting. Colored is divided into 4 classes by appearance:

lump
chip
dust
other (wire, thin plates, etc.)

According to GOST 2787-75 standards, the main grades of ferrous scrap are determined by the percentage of carbon in the metal, by the quality of raw materials (dust, shavings or large pieces), by the content of alloying additives, and their quantitative composition.

According to the standards, two classes are distinguished according to carbon content:

cast iron
steel (carbon no more than 2.14%)

Division by category

The state standard prescribes the classification of scrap into 28 quality categories, which, in turn, can have 2 subcategories “A” (carbon metal products) and “B” (scrap metal with alloying additives). The first 16 categories are allocated to steel scrap. Another 8 are allocated to cast iron. The last 4 categories refer to slag, scale, etc. The general designation of the grade is written in the form of a formula, for example, 18 “A” - secondary non-alloyed cast iron.

The most popular categories of scrap metal

The most well-known categories of scrap metal include:

3A - dimensional from large pieces (from 2 kg to 600 kg) with limited dimensions of 800 x 500 x 500 mm, this also includes pipes whose diameter does not exceed 150 mm (if the diameter is larger, the pipes should be flattened or spread lengthwise)
5A - oversized steel with a thickness of at least 4 cm, pipe sections up to 1.5 m long, having a diameter of 20 cm, weight of 1 piece up to 2000 kg
12A – steel roofing parts, wire and other lightweight scrap metal with a thickness of up to 4 mm
13 A/B – ropes, steel and low-alloy wire
6, 7 – briquetted chips
14, 15 – chips unpacked in bulk
16 A / B – vine-shaped shavings

Division by area of use

The classes taking into account where the ferrous metal products were used are as follows:

household (things, used household mechanisms)
depreciation (ships, diesel locomotives, entire vehicles, building structures)
military (military equipment and equipment with an expired expiration date), overall
lightweight
lump (used, of significant size, not exceeding standards)
bagged (small waste compressed and bagged, ready for melting)
negotiable (factory defect)
complex (used products made of combined metals)

Second metal is an important raw material for metallurgy, which is 1.4 times cheaper than processing metal-containing rocks, allows saving natural labor and production resources, and reduces the burden on the environment. Its sorting is an important part of processing before entering the blast furnace.

Source: https://mldm.ru/kategorii-metalloloma/

How to identify or distinguish types of scrap metal, colored from black. — Reception of scrap metal Kharkov, reception of scrap copper, brass, lead

Metal is one of the most recycled and in demand materials around the world. There are no particular problems in this area in Ukraine either. Production of cast iron, steel, etc. an extremely energy-intensive process, and recycling scrap metal and using scrap in production significantly reduces energy consumption and reduces the need to use natural resources .

Scrap metal is a variety of metal waste. There are black scrap, non-ferrous scrap and precious scrap. Black and non-ferrous scrap accept most items.

The most common metals accepted for recycling include steel, iron, cast iron, copper, aluminum, brass, lead, nickel, and chromium. Precious metals are accepted less frequently, since the company requires a special license for this.

Before taking metal to be recycled, call the recycling center in advance or check the online acceptance list to make sure your metal will be accepted.

Scrap metal recycling and prices

Selling scrap metal brings in money, sometimes very little, but it all depends on what is being handed over and in what quantity.

Scrap prices are determined depending on various factors: quality, size, weight and type of metal. Black scrap is cheaper than non-ferrous scrap. The greater the weight of scrap metal, the more profitable it is to hand it over, i.e. the higher the price per kilogram.

If the metal requires additional processing, it has background radiation or foreign impurities, then the price drops.

In addition, different companies offer different prices for the same type of scrap metal. Shipping of scrap is the main cost of setting up a recycling operation, so the closer the collection point is to the recycling facility, the higher the price per scrap is likely to be.

Determining the type of scrap

To get the maximum payment for scrap, it must be sorted into different types before being taken to a collection point. But for people who have studied little about the characteristics of various metals and have not experienced the recycling of metal, it is often difficult to determine which metal is in front of them.

Black crowbar

The easiest way to determine whether scrap metal is black or non-ferrous is to use a magnet. If the magnet sticks to the material, then it is clear that the composition contains iron and that it is black scrap. Ferrous scrap is not very expensive, but it is accepted almost everywhere. The price for ferrous scrap is very low; in Ukraine it ranges from 2.50 to 3.50 UAH per kg.

Stainless steel

Stainless steels do not magnetize when the alloying components are more than 20%, and at collection points they are often placed in a separate group. To determine whether steel is stainless, you can drop water on it; if a rusty mark remains, then it is ordinary steel.

The price of non-stainless steel is low, but it is higher than regular black scrap. Maybe about 8 - 15 UAH. per kg.

Many common metals such as copper, aluminum, brass and bronze are classified as non-ferrous metals. They are more expensive than ferrous scrap. A magnet is not attracted to these metals.

Copper

Copper in good condition has a golden-pink color; when exposed to air, it quickly becomes coated with an oxide film and becomes darker and brown with greenish-blue rusted areas.

Copper can often be found in the home. It can be used to make water pipes, roofing materials, gutters, and air conditioning pipes. It is also often used in wires.

Copper is one of the most valuable metals for processing, it costs about 70-95 UAH per kg, so you can earn a decent amount by selling it. Before delivery to the collection point, the copper must be sorted into different types of scrap.

Aluminum

Aluminum is often painted white and is itself a silvery-white color. A thin layer of aluminum can be easily bent.

Aluminum cans are not the only source of aluminum, although they are most often collected for recycling. Aluminum can be found throughout the home.

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Often used to protect gutters, siding, window frames, doors, and more, aluminum is used in so many fixtures around the home.

Aluminum costs little at collection points, the price per kg of aluminum is about 10-18 UAH per kg, but its processing allows you to save 80% of the energy that is necessary to produce aluminum from ore.

Brass

Brass is a very heavy metal, it has a yellowish color with a slight reddish tint, and has a gold-like appearance.

Brass can often be found in radiators, keys, door handles, light fixtures and plumbing fixtures.

Brass can be either a simple double alloy of copper and zinc, or an alloy with the addition of other components. The price for brass is average, about 35-55 UAH. per kg.

Bronze

Bronze is usually dark brown in color and has a grainy texture. But the color of bronze depends on the composition of the alloy. Bronze is usually an alloy of copper and tin and/or other elements. Tin is most often used to make bronze. Depending on the composition of the alloy, bronzes are tin, beryllium, aluminum and silicon. If it contains 90% copper, then it is red, if 85% is yellowish, at 50% it is white, and at 35% it is gray.

It is used by sculptors to create busts, monuments, and fences. Bronze products are very durable.

The cost of bronze is approximately the same as brass, and is about 35-55 UAH. per kg.

In any case, if there is even a little metal scrap, it is better to hand it over to collection points rather than throw it in a landfill, since this is more environmentally friendly, saves natural resources and will bring at least some profit.

Note:

The prices in the article are approximate. For more accurate information, please contact our scrap metal collection point.

Source: http://xn--80ajtaabfob8a.xn--80adbmxym2b3d.xn--j1amh/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D1%8B-%D0%BC%D0%B5%D1%82 %D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B2/%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA-%D0%BE%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B5 %D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C-%D0%B8%D0%BB%D0%B8-%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%B7 %D0%BB%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C-%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D1%8B-%D0%BC%D0%B5 %D1%82/

How to identify stainless steel: methods and materials

Stainless steel is the name of a group of iron alloys that contain corrosion-resistant metals. Carbon, titanium, copper are used as additives, and the composition also includes from 12 to 25% chromium and nickel. Alloy steel alloys are not susceptible to corrosion and are resistant to moisture, aggressive environments, alkalis and acids.

Stainless steel is used to produce dishes, knives, elements of machine tools, cars and industrial equipment, especially in the chemical and oil industries. Such scrap is accepted at a high price, which depends on the composition. The most expensive alloys are those with a high nickel content (from 10%). To get maximum profit from scrap metal, it is important to know how to identify stainless steel?

Metals and alloys that are often confused

The silver alloy of iron and chromium is suitable for the production of kitchen utensils, medical instruments, bearings, cutting elements, etc. But these items are also made from the following materials:

nickel-plated brass (a white copper alloy with a zinc content of more than 25%);
cupronickel (silver-white metal made from an alloy of copper and nickel);
white copper (an alloy containing at least 25% nickel).

Polished aluminum, nichrome, nickel silver and other alloys used for the production of cookware, knives, and jewelry can easily be confused with alloy steel. Despite their similar composition and high nickel content, they are easily distinguished at a scrap metal collection point and will not be accepted at the desired price. There are several ways to determine whether aluminum or stainless steel has fallen into your hands: chemical, mechanical, etc.

Analysis using a magnet

In the laboratories of large collection points, a spectrometer is installed - an optical device for spectroscopic research. It is equipped with an interferometer to evaluate the intensity of spectral lines and measure wavelengths. The received data is processed by a computer, giving an accurate conclusion about the composition of the alloy.

If you need to identify stainless steel at home, use improvised but relatively reliable means. One of them is a magnet: it is generally accepted that stainless steel is not magnetic. However, this diagnostic method is not accurate enough, because martensitic and ferritic alloys have magnetic properties.

Using a magnet, only austenitic and austenitic-ferritic alloys with a high content of chromium and nickel can be detected. They are used to produce dishes, plumbing and refrigeration equipment, containers for food liquids, etc. Contrary to popular belief, it is impossible to accurately determine stainless steel with a magnet, but you can roughly identify its type.

Defining food grade stainless steel

As stated above, a magnet helps to identify food grade stainless steel at home. Alloys with a low carbon content and a large amount of nickel in the composition do not react to contact with it. Stainless steel with a high carbon content (more than 0.9%) has magnetic properties and is prohibited for use in the food industry.

Also, to determine food grade stainless steel, various acids are used (citric, tartaric, acetic, etc.). Alloys for food applications contain more alloying additives, so their surface film is stronger and contains almost no iron.

For additional protection against corrosion, passivation is used - a method of treating the surface of a metal, as a result of which its activity is reduced and it does not enter into oxidative reactions.

Under the influence of these acids, stainless steel may become covered with a light patina, which indicates its non-food purpose.

Types and grades of non-magnetic steels

If the origin of the product is known, the reaction with a magnet can roughly determine the type of stainless steel. The following brands are not magnetic:

AISI 409 (analogue 08X13) - containers for cargo transportation, parts for the exhaust system of a car, etc. are made from this ferritic steel. (plasticity and lack of magnetic properties are due to the extremely low C content - less than 0.03%);
AISI 304 (analogous to 8-12X18H10) - household items are made from it, as well as utensils and equipment for the food and pharmaceutical industries;
12Х21НБТ (ЭИ8П) – austenitic-ferritic steel for use in medium-aggressive environments, from which containers and equipment for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries are produced.

Stainless steel grades AISI 402–420, which contain from 11 to 14% chromium and less than 0.07% carbon, are not magnetic.

Magnetic stainless steel

AISI 430 steel (analogous to 08X17, which contains 15% chromium) has magnetic properties. It is used to produce wire mesh, pipes for transporting petroleum products, and elements of gas and oil refining process plants. Steel grade AISI 630 contains up to 5% nickel and chromium, as well as a large number of additives: copper, titanium, molybdenum. It is used in instrument making and metallurgy.

Stainless steel can be identified even if it is magnetic. To do this, place a sample of the material in 2% vinegar or another aggressive medium for 1–2 days. Corrosion-resistant alloys will pass this test without visible changes, but metals that are susceptible to corrosion will darken.

Copper sulfate will also help determine magnetic stainless steel at home. First clean the metal surface with sandpaper, and then apply a few drops of a concentrated substance (rusting alloys are covered with a red film).

Spark test

Testing metal for spark color is a common method of sorting scrap metal, which is used even by specialists. The grade of stainless steel can be determined by the following factors:

the number of sparks and flashes, which is directly proportional to the volume of carbon in the alloy;
the color of the sparks, which indicates the composition of the metal (the lighter it is, the higher the likelihood that this is low-carbon steel);
the presence of shiny white sparks, which indicates a high titanium content in the composition.

To carry out the test, an angle grinder (grinder) is required. Start grinding the surface of the steel and observe the reaction. The color, length and shape of the sparks will help you accurately determine metal or stainless steel.

"Yellow flow" or "white fork"

There are many types of sparks: “fork”, “twig”, “arrow”, etc. You learn to distinguish them with experience, but even an untrained person will be able to distinguish a dense and short stream of flashes from the long and rare sparks characteristic of stainless steel. The presence of dark red sparks coming out from under the grinding wheel indicates a high content of nickel, tungsten carbide and cobalt.

If a medium-density stream appears during the grinding process, and the sparks are straw-yellow at the base and white at the end, you have stainless steel. A long stream of sparks, reaching 1.5 meters, indicates the presence of nitrogen in the composition. In this case, it is not difficult to determine the grade of stainless steel: nitrogen alloys are quite rare and there are only a few of them (Nitrobe 77, Sandvik™ 14C28N, Böhler N680, etc.).

What does the price depend on?

Low-carbon, corrosion-resistant alloys are used to produce a wide variety of products: blades, profiled sheets, roofing materials, medical supplies. Scrap stainless steel can be collected when dismantling an old fence, dismantling an old refrigerator, throwing away unnecessary kitchen utensils, etc. In this case, potential income will depend on the following factors:

type of steel (austenitic, ferritic, martensitic, etc.);
steel grade (AISI 304, AISI 630, 12Х21НБТ);
type of rolled metal (sheet, section, pipe);
sheet thickness;
compound;
quality.

You can determine the stainless steel brand and composition in a laboratory setting by contacting a reliable collection point. We have the necessary equipment to analyze the composition, assess the quality and test the radiation activity of non-ferrous scrap. But you can pre-evaluate scrap metal at home.

How to evaluate quality?

The quality of stainless steel depends on various factors - from the amount of additives to the joining method. In places where welds are formed, the anti-corrosion properties of the metal deteriorate significantly, which over time leads to the appearance of rust and gradual destruction of the material.

Painted profiled sheets will have to be cleaned of the coating and sanded, damaging the protective layer on the surface. Accordingly, the metal will become less resistant to moisture, its quality will deteriorate, and therefore the price of such scrap will be lower. You can preliminary evaluate the properties of steel using a salt solution.

It should not leave stains on the surface of high-alloy steel. And water will leave yellowish stains on low-quality stainless steel.

The most expensive types of stainless steel

The cost is affected by the amount of nickel in the alloy: in the cheapest types its content does not exceed 5%. The most expensive are high-alloy alloys containing nickel from 12%. The expensive scrap includes plumbing fittings and rings, wire and various electrical connectors (connectors, adapters, etc.). Matte (a by-product of non-ferrous metallurgy) with a nickel content of over 35% is also highly valued, although it is classified as slag.

But the most common steel grade is A2, containing approximately 10% nickel and 18% chromium. It is usually used to make household items. To find out the exact price, visit our collection point: to evaluate scrap, specialists must inspect the metal, assess the degree of contamination, composition and properties.

Source: https://blog.blizkolom.ru/kak-opredelit-nerzhavejku

Categories of scrap metal with a table - metal collection point METALL1.RU

Type of scrap metal	Description
3A, 3AN, 3A2, 3A2N	Dimensions no more than 1500x500x500 and/or 1000x1000. Lump scrap. Metal thickness from 4 mm. A metal thickness of less than 2 mm is allowed in an amount of no more than 5% of the batch weight. Reinforcement with a diameter of at least 10 mm, but not more than 10% of the lot weight. The following is not allowed: -wire and products made from it; - die cutting and technological cladding thinner than 2 mm; - car breakage (body repair).
5A, 5A2	Oversized lump scrap m waste and steel scrap. Metal thickness is at least 4 mm. Wire and wire products are not allowed. The metal should not be burnt, corroded by acids or rusty (a coating of rust and partial burning is allowed).
12A, 12A2	Dimensions are not regulated. Steel, sheet, strip waste, roofing, light industrial and household scrap metal. It is allowed to supply reinforcement with a diameter of less than 6 mm, no more than 5% of the batch weight (mixed with the base metal). Complete automobile bodies, household appliances (refrigerators, stoves, washing machines). The presence of steel ropes up to 10%, galvanized, enameled, tinned metal up to 10% and non-ferrous metal is allowed.
12AC	Galvanized and tinned sheets, strip waste, household scrap. The presence of steel ropes, wire, and non-ferrous metal is not allowed.
16A	Vinyl-shaped steel shavings. Caking with cast iron and non-ferrous shavings is not allowed; the shavings should not be burnt or rusty.
13A	Steel ropes, wire circles with a diameter of less than 10 mm. Scrap mixed with an admixture of ropes and wires not exceeding 20%. The presence of non-ferrous metal waste is not allowed.
17A	Scrap and waste of cast iron products. Waste from iron foundry production (emergency drains, furnace trestles, etc.) is not allowed.
20A	An admixture of difficult-to-separate steel is allowed no more than 5%. Machine, cast iron castings. The presence of scrap steel and non-ferrous metals is not allowed.
4NN	Mixed scrap, steel cast iron scrap.
B26	Stainless steel scrap, with a nickel content of at least 6%.

This group includes scrap metal consisting of household and industrial scrap, which is packaged in separate bags with a total weight of no more than 40 kg. There are no dimensional restrictions, and scrap metal in this group can take any shape and configuration. Such scrap metal is characterized by a high percentage of contamination and the presence of rust on the surface, and there are no strict restrictions on overall dimensions and sorting.

Category 3A

Scrap metal category 3A includes steel scrap of limited size. The mass of each individual fragment must not exceed 600 kg, and the length cannot be more than 1.6 meters. This group includes steel pipes that are cut and flattened. When receiving such raw materials, it may be necessary to dismantle the structure and use special construction equipment.

Category 5A

Category 5A scrap metal consists of oversized steel and alloy scrap. This group also includes steel scrap; the bag packaging should not exceed 5 kg. This group includes most of the scrap metal that individuals can hand over. Household products, industrial waste and building fragments are accepted as such raw materials.

Category 17A

Category 17A metal is scrap cast iron products that have no dimensional restrictions and are packaged in bags weighing up to 20 kg. If you need to hand over raw materials of such a group, then individual pieces do not have to be cut and prepared for reception.

If you need to hand over scrap of any of the presented groups, in addition to the exact determination of the standard, the condition of the metal is checked during handling. We offer to sell scrap of category 12A and any others at high prices and resort to comprehensive reception services using special construction equipment.

Our company offers to sell ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal in St. Petersburg at the best prices, and a comprehensive purchase will eliminate the need to hire additional labor or rent special equipment.

Source: https://metall1.ru/kategorii-metalloloma

Ways to determine the type of metal yourself

How to determine a metal and its origin? The question is mainly of interest to jewelry owners who are afraid of purchasing a fake for an impressive amount. You can deal with this problem yourself or contact an expert. The jeweler will conduct an examination, issue an opinion and charge a fee for the work. Authenticity testing can cost from 10 to 20% of the cost of jewelry. If you can’t contact a specialist, then you should try to solve the problem on your own.

Comparison of platinum, silver and white gold

How to check?

Owners of platinum jewelry should remember:

Platinum is an expensive and heavy metal, and small jewelry is often made from it.
Platinum can be replaced with silver, but such a substitution can be recognized by color.
The hardest thing to distinguish from the original is jewelry that has a layer of platinum applied to it.
The mark on the surface of the product should not raise doubts.
Platinum is not afraid of high temperatures and reagents.

THIS IS INTERESTING: What is more expensive, yellow or white gold?

The cost of platinum is constantly increasing; there is not much of this metal in the world. Therefore, if in a store a buyer is offered to purchase an impressively sized product made of platinum, and its cost is quite low, he should refuse the purchase. Platinum is not sold cheaply, and jewelry made from it is small; the metal is too heavy.

Platinum Bank Bar

Silver and platinum are similar in appearance, so the expensive metal is often replaced with silver. Such a fake will give itself away with a black tint and plasticity. Silver is not resistant to damage; a mark will remain on its surface, but it will not be possible to spoil a platinum product in this way.

If a layer of platinum is applied to the surface of the product, then a fake can be recognized by its weight. When this is not possible, it will not be possible to determine its quality without causing damage to the jewelry.

Before purchasing, you need to carefully examine the mark; you can use a magnifying glass for this. If all the numbers are clearly visible, most likely the jewelry is really made of platinum.

Due to its chemical properties, platinum is not afraid of high temperatures and acids. When immersed in acid, ammonia and even when exposed to iodine, the product will not change. If you try to heat a ring or earring with a lighter, the temperature of the jewelry will not change immediately. Platinum is a poor conductor of heat, unlike silver.

Gold and silver

At home, gold and silver are most often tested. You can also buy a fake in a jewelry store, but don’t panic.

It is easy to check the authenticity of silver; just immerse it in hot water. The metal will immediately heat up, but will not hold the temperature for long.

Gold jewelry

If you apply a small amount of sulfur ointment to the surface of silver jewelry, the product will immediately darken. This will indicate the authenticity of the metal.

Low-grade silver is easier to distinguish; you just need to hold the item in your hands and then examine your palms. If there are black marks or stains on them, the quality of the silver leaves much to be desired.

Iodine is a universal tool for testing precious metals; a drop of it can resolve all issues. If after the procedure there are streaks left on the surface of the jewelry, it is a fake.

Gold is also tested using iodine. If after the test the metal changes color, absorbs iodine and a stain forms on its surface, this is a sign of a fake or an alloy that contains a large number of other non-precious metals.

Checking gold with a magnet

Gold can also be identified by color: if the jewelry has a red tint, then it probably contains copper. The latter changes color at high humidity and acquires a green tint. Therefore, if gold changes color when in contact with water, it contains copper in large quantities. An exception is red gold, which gets its color by adding copper to the alloy.

A clean piece of paper will help distinguish fake from gold. It is enough to sweep two decorations across its surface at the same time. If the stripes do not have any differences, then they are made of gold.

Only gold that is 585 or higher should be checked for authenticity; other products will not pass the test. And the use of chemical elements during the procedure can ruin the jewelry.

It is difficult to distinguish gilding from gold; for this you can make a notch. The damage will allow us to study the metal at the cut site. If there are no differences, then the jewelry is made of gold.

Another universal method for checking jewelry is a magnet. Noble metals do not react to magnets. If the product behaves differently, then it contains iron or steel.

Some craftsmen have learned to distinguish silver from base metals by assessing the smell - this test is very dubious.

None of the above methods will give a 100% guarantee. You may suspect a fake, but only an expert can accurately determine the quality of the metal. Some silver items are not assayed at all. This is a reason to think, but such a phenomenon does not indicate that it is a fake. You can understand the authenticity of the metal and its quality after some time. If, a few days after purchase, the earrings, ring or bracelet darken, this should be regarded as the first sign of a fake.

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Source: https://DedPodaril.com/lityo/kak-opredelit-metall.html

How to determine the category of scrap metal - Metalworkers' Guide

The official classification of metal waste is extensive and multi-stage. It takes into account numerous characteristics by which or the combination of which this or that scrap metal belongs to a certain type, group, class, category.

In the usual practice adopted in relations between organizations that procure secondary metals and deliverers, types of scrap metal are categorized more simply, which ensures optimal mutual understanding and a transparent system of purchase prices when making delivery/reception transactions.

Types of scrap metal: separation according to main characteristics

When classifying scrap metal as one type or another, the following characteristics are primarily taken into account:

chemical composition;
physical structure;
origin;
mass and dimensional characteristics of fragments;
degree of purity;
quality indicators.

The basis of any classification is the division of secondary metals into ferrous and non-ferrous.

The first category includes metals and iron-based alloys - steel and cast iron.

The second is much more extensive, and combines numerous non-magnetic metals and their alloys.

“Stainless” steels stand somewhat apart: in some cases they are classified as ferrous metals, sometimes (some grades with a high content of alloying elements) as non-ferrous.

Scrap of noble (precious) metals also occupies a special place.

Types of scrap metal (table by group)

Scrap ferrous metals	Scrap of non-ferrous metals and alloys	Scrap of noble (precious) metals
Cast ironSteelStainless alloys with low alloying elements	AluminumCopperBronzeBrassLeadZincNickel-containing alloysMagnesiumRare metal scrapSemiconductor scrapOthers	GoldSilverPlatinumOther

Types of ferrous metal scrap

This includes items made from steel, cast iron and stainless alloys with low additive content.

The categorization of this recyclable material is regulated by the requirements of GOST 2787-75.

Classification principles:

According to carbon content, 2 classes are defined - steel, cast iron;
based on the presence or absence of alloying additives, 2 classes have been established (carbon, alloyed); the latter, in turn, are divided by the state standard into 67 groups depending on the types and percentage of alloying elements.
According to quality criteria, there is a division into 28 categories.

Another principle for categorizing this type of waste is dimensional, mass and geometric parameters.

Thus, one of the most common categories 3A includes pieces of metal with maximum dimensions of 1500x500x500 mm, weighing from 1 to 600 kg, and a number of others; 5A is oversized waste; category 12A combines industrial and household batch grade scrap, 13A is wire and fittings.

Other types of ferrous scrap are also standardized according to these criteria.

Of particular importance is the division depending on origin:

recycled products and their parts (parts of machines and building structures, rails, pipes, fittings, household items, etc.);
industrial (waste from foundry and metalworking industries - shavings, trimmings, scrap, defective parts);
stale metal (not used, which has lost its original performance properties as a result of long-term storage and is subject to recycling).

Separately, groups are determined by contamination indicator (the amount of foreign, including non-metallic, impurities).

Types of non-ferrous metal scrap

It includes numerous items made of metals that do not belong to the first category, except for precious ones.

The categorization of this recyclable material is regulated by the requirements of GOST 1639-2009.

The main types of non-ferrous metal scrap are:

aluminum;
copper;
bronze;
brass;
lead;
zinc and TsAM;
nickel-containing alloys;
magnesium;
rare metal scrap;
semiconductor scrap.

Among the listed types, aluminum predominates quantitatively.

The state standard establishes 32 types of waste, but in common practice it is customary to distinguish some, among which the most common are:

food;
electrotechnical;
profile;
offset.

When sorting at collection points, car wheels and radiators are usually also separated.

A special place is occupied by shavings and drink cans.

Other aluminum belongs to the conventional “mix” category, i.e. contains parts and fragments of different composition, geometry and size.

It should be noted that the name can sometimes confuse the sender; Thus, the usual pots, bowls, mugs, and milk flasks belong to the “food” category, but frying pans have nothing to do with it.

Among copper items, one should highlight cable copper, wire (from the windings of transformers and electric motors), electrical parts (terminals, conductive clamps, shoes, etc.), a special category of “shine” and some others; Waste of different quality and structure belongs to the “mix” category.

Among bronze and brass products, plumbing fixtures (taps, mixers, their fasteners), car radiators, fittings, and household items predominate.

Metalworking waste from industries using these materials stands separately.

It is sometimes easy for an inexperienced deliverer to make a mistake: often products made from other metals look like they contain copper; For example, aluminum wires coated with copper, zinc faucets that look like brass, and even lamps or door handles made of ferrous metal that imitate bronze due to electroplating are widespread.

Scrap lead includes cable protective sheathing, battery plates, balancing weights, as well as the so-called “self-melt”, which are homogeneous shapeless or hand-molded pieces.

Often, at non-ferrous metal collection points, batteries are accepted in their entirety, both drained and filled.

There are certain features in the categorization of other types of non-ferrous metal scrap.

Types of precious metal scrap

This category includes:

jewelry, put out of use for various reasons, and its fragments;
elements of silver-zinc batteries, catalysts, chemical equipment and other devices containing precious metals;
parts and elements of radio-electronic devices;
some other products.

The procedure for receiving and storing precious metal scrap differs significantly from the usual due to the need to ensure its proper accounting and proper storage conditions.

Source: https://ssk2121.com/kategoriya-metalloloma-kak-opredelit/

Differences between cast iron and steel

18.01.2018 18:12

Steel and cast iron are some of the most popular types of casting materials used in industry. They are quite similar in their properties; you can understand the difference between steel and cast iron in different ways. Some of the methods can only be used in a factory environment using high-precision equipment, while others are suitable for use at home.

The main difference between cast iron and steel is the composition of the metals. Steel is an alloy of iron (45%) with carbon (no more than 2%) and alloying impurities, which can be substances such as nickel, molybdenum or others.

This metal is characterized by high strength, ductility, and ease of processing. Cast iron also contains iron and carbon, but the latter should be 2% or more.

Alloying additives are usually silicon, phosphorus, manganese or other components.

Differences in physicochemical characteristics

The main difference in the qualities of these metals is as follows:

The hardness of steel is higher than that of cast iron.
The weight of steel products is less, and the material melts more easily.
Certain types of processing are available only for steel workpieces (forging, welding), while cast iron products are manufactured only by casting.
The thermal conductivity of cast iron products is lower than that of their steel counterparts.
Cast iron does not require mandatory hardening.

Is it possible to distinguish cast iron from steel visually?

If we are talking about fragments or workpieces, the processing of which will not cause harm, you can look at the visual differences between the metals. When a cast iron product is scrapped, a dark gray matte tint appears; the steel surface is lighter and has a glossy texture.

The appearance depends on the content of carbon components; they can be distinguished by the type of cracks: on high-carbon steel surfaces they look like a defect in the form of a split; on a product made of a low-carbon iron alloy, the cracks look like a plastic-type rupture.

To the question of whether it is possible to distinguish finished products by shade or texture, one can give a definite answer: objects made of steel are lighter and almost always have a glossy tint, products made of cast iron are dark and matte.

How to distinguish cast iron from steel?

To distinguish these metals from each other, you can use the following methods:

Drilling. To do this, you will need to take a nozzle with a small diameter and, having selected a flat area on the workpiece, drill a small hole. If, when processing a material, thin chips are formed, which are formed into a twisted strip longer than the drill used, have tarnish colors along the entire length and bend well enough, the workpiece is made of steel. The cast iron alloy is less ductile, it practically does not form a loach, and the shavings crumble from the slightest mechanical impact: they are easy to grind to a powder state, since the material is more fragile;
Grinding. For this, an angle grinder is used; for processing, select an area that is not affected by frictional forces, contact with other metal surfaces or parts, otherwise, after grinding, the product may be unsuitable for further use. During the processing process, it is necessary to monitor the color of the spark and its shape. If the alloy is cast iron, the spark will be short, the sprocket will have a reddish tone, and if the part is made of steel, more sparks will fly out, they will have an increased size and an oblong shape. The sparks themselves are yellow or white. The exception is steel alloys with a high carbon content, which produce a short, purple spark with a shortened track and a small sprocket.

Mechanical impact methods can be used in everyday conditions, when you need to determine whether the material in front of you is cast iron or steel, without the use of special equipment.

The laboratory can use modern technology, with the help of which spectral or microscopic analysis of the properties of metals is carried out.

These methods provide highly accurate results, but are used primarily for industrial purposes, in production and in the scientific and technical industry due to the complexity and high cost of the equipment.

Source: https://metallomcity.ru/stati-o-metallolome/otlichiya-chuguna-ot-stali

Purchasing ferrous scrap metal - articles from MetalCity-M

Today, scrap acceptance is a popular service. Sales and processing of raw materials have a beneficial effect on the environment and the financial component of organizations. The latter became possible thanks to an eco-tax on waste production.

Ferrous scrap metal is iron-containing products. It can take the form of cast iron shavings, sheet waste, used household items, car parts, pipes, metal waste, etc. Most often represented by steel scrap. Ferrous metal differs from non-ferrous metals in its iron content.

Reception of ferrous scrap metal

After raw materials are delivered to the receiving point, they undergo a detailed inspection. Specialists determine the type of scrap metal, sort it and weigh it. Ferrous metal, in accordance with GOST 2787-75, is classified according to the following characteristics:

percentage of carbon - carbon and steel waste;
the presence of alloying elements - carbon and alloy steel;
quality parameters - 28 varieties;
percentage of alloying elements - 67 types.

If the volume of scrap metal is small, private organizations accept it. Metal depots specialize in producing ferrous metal of large sizes.