When it comes to scrapping metal, one question always pops up — which metal is worth more, aluminium or steel? If you’ve ever cleaned out a shed, dismantled an old car, or dropped off scrap at a recycling yard, you’ve probably wondered the same thing. Both metals are common, recyclable, and valuable in their own right. But their prices and uses can differ a lot.
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect next time you bring in a load to your local metal recycler.
Which Metal Is Worth More: Aluminium or Steel?
In most cases, aluminium pays more than steel in scrap value. Aluminium is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and used in high-demand industries like automotive, construction, and packaging. These factors push up its recycling price.
Steel, on the other hand, is much heavier and more common. While it’s still valuable, it doesn’t fetch the same rate per kilogram because there’s so much of it available.
To give you an idea (though prices vary daily):
- Aluminium can range from around $1.00 to $2.00 per kg, depending on the grade.
- Steel generally pays much less, around $0.10 to $0.30 per kg for mixed scrap.
Keep in mind, scrap prices fluctuate based on global demand, purity, and market conditions, so it’s always best to check with your local recycling yard before you bring your load in.
Why Is Aluminium More Valuable?
Aluminium holds its value mainly because of how energy-intensive it is to produce new aluminium from raw materials. Recycling it saves about 95% of the energy used in primary production, making it a major win for both the environment and manufacturers’ bottom lines.
It’s also in steady demand — used in everything from car panels, window frames, and engine parts to soft drink cans and aircraft components. Since recycled aluminium can be reused indefinitely without losing quality, recyclers are always happy to buy it.
Does Steel Have Any Scrap Value?
Absolutely. While steel pays less per kilo, it’s still a big part of the recycling industry. Steel is one of the most recycled materials in the world. Most car bodies, washing machines, and construction beams are made of it, so the quantity can quickly add up.
For example, if you’re scrapping an old car or heavy machinery, the total weight might make your payout worthwhile, even if the rate per kilo isn’t high. It’s bulk that makes the difference with steel.
Which Metal Is Easier to Recycle?
Both are easy to recycle, but the process differs slightly:
- Aluminium is usually sorted, melted, and reformed into new sheets or parts with minimal waste.
- Steel often needs to be magnetically separated, cleaned, and melted down before it’s reused in construction or automotive manufacturing.
If you’re dropping off mixed metal scrap, most recycling yards will sort it for you. However, separating aluminium from steel before you arrive can help you get a better price.
How to Tell the Difference Between Aluminium and Steel
If you’re unsure which metal you have, here’s a quick test:
- Magnet test: Steel sticks to a magnet, aluminium doesn’t.
- Weight: Aluminium feels lighter, even in larger pieces.
- Colour: Aluminium tends to be dull silver-grey, while steel is darker and may show rust.
Knowing what you’ve got helps recyclers process your load faster and often means you’ll walk away with a more accurate payout.
Is It Worth Collecting Aluminium for Scrap?
Yes — especially if you have clean, pure aluminium. Items like alloy wheels, window frames, ladders, and car parts can add up fast. If you regularly deal with vehicles, building materials, or even cans, separating and stockpiling aluminium can bring in steady extra cash.
Even better, aluminium scrap is compact and doesn’t rust, so it’s easy to store until you have enough to justify a trip to the yard.
How Can You Get the Best Price for Scrap Metal?
Here are a few quick tips to maximise your return:
- Separate metals — keep aluminium and steel apart.
- Clean your scrap — remove plastic, rubber, or attachments.
- Watch market trends — prices can rise or fall with global demand.
- Deal with a trusted local recycler — they’ll give you honest rates and fast service.
If you’re in Melbourne or nearby, a reliable metal recycling service like Super Metal can help you get top cash for both aluminium and steel. We buy all kinds of scrap — from old car bodies and building materials to industrial leftovers — and offer same-day pickup for convenience.
Scrap metal prices may change, but one thing stays the same — recycling pays off, both for your wallet and the planet. Whether it’s aluminium bringing in the higher rate or steel making up for it in bulk, every bit of metal you recycle helps reduce waste and keeps valuable resources in use. So, next time you clean up the garage or pull apart an old vehicle, separate your metals, check the latest rates, and cash in smartly.
If you are in Aspendale, and looking for a metal recycling service, this is the best way to visit us.
Super Metal Recycling
345 Frankston – Dandenong Road, Dandenong South VIC 3175
(03) 9706 4909
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