So you want to do some recycling. As experienced Melbourne scrappers, we’re glad to hear it! That said, it’s important to know what a scrap yard will and won’t accept before you start loading up your metal scrap to recycle. Whether it’s earth-conscious citizens or overloaded contractors looking to dump all the leftover clutter from a job site, we’ve seen plenty of customers show up with materials that can’t be recycled.
We’re happy to offer some insight into what can’t be recycled and why so that you don’t waste a trip to the scrap yard. And knowing the difference between what is acceptable scrap and what isn’t can help make you more money.
What Can I Scrap?
Just about any type of metal can be recycled, but some metals are more valuable than others. The most common metals we see brought in for recycling are:
Aluminium
Copper
Steel
Iron
These scrap metals are easy to recycle because they have a high demand and don’t require special processing to be turned into new products.
What Can’t I Scrap?
Fortunately for those looking to keep the scrapping process simple, the list of things most scrap yards won’t take is short. The biggest non-negotiable for scrap yards is a universally radioactive waste of any kind. If you have any doubts about whether or not something is radioactive, it’s always best to check with a professional before bringing it in.
Hazardous Waste
The other big no-no for scrap yards is hazardous waste, which includes:
Paint cans
Batteries
Explosives
Compressed gas cylinders
Fire extinguishers
Tires
These items are all considered hazardous because they can be harmful to the environment or the people handling them. If you have any of these items that you need to get rid of, it’s best to check with your local municipality about the proper way to dispose of them.
Other Items To Avoid
In addition to the items listed above, there are a few other things that most scrap yards won’t take. They include:
Asbestos
PVC pipes
Computers and electronics
Appliances
While some of these items (like asbestos and PVC pipes) can technically be recycled, most scrap yards don’t have the proper facilities to do so. And because computers and other electronics contain a variety of metals, plastics, and harmful chemicals, they require special processing to be recycled safely. The same goes for appliances, which often contain Freon or other harmful chemicals.
The Takeaway
When in doubt, it’s always best to check with your local scrap yard before bringing in any materials. And if you have any items that can’t be recycled, be sure to dispose of them properly so that they don’t end up in a landfill.
By following these simple guidelines, you can help make the recycling process more efficient and ensure that your scrap materials are put to good use.
Do you have any questions about what can or can’t be recycled? Let us know!
If you are at Noble Park, Victoria 3174, below is the best way to visit us.
Super Metal Recycling
345 Frankston – Dandenong Road, Dandenong South VIC 3175
(03) 9706 4909
* Find us on Google Map
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