It’s been years since the aluminium recycling industry started to boom. As a result, aluminium scrap is one of the most popular and important commodities on the market today. But, not all types of scrap aluminium are created equal…in fact, many have different chemical compositions, colour variations and more! In this post, we will be giving you a list of all of the most common forms of scrap aluminium available today.
Types of Aluminium scrap
Aluminium is a metal that is easy to work with, which makes it popular for many applications. It can be found in a number of different forms, which means there are many types of scrap aluminium.
Aluminium ingots
Aluminium ingots are large blocks of metal that have been cast from molten aluminium. They are often used by manufacturers because they can be easily machined into the shapes they need.
Aluminium billets
An aluminium billet is a piece of aluminium that has been rolled into a particular shape and size, often to fit the requirements of an individual customer. The billet may be flat or rectangular in shape, and it may also have holes drilled through it for further processing purposes. Billets are typically used for industrial purposes such as making components for cars or aeroplanes.
Aluminium wire and rod
Aluminium is a fantastic material, with so many different applications. It’s lightweight, strong, durable and resistant to corrosion. The majority of aluminium scrap sold in the UK is in the form of aluminium wire and rod. These products are used in a variety of sectors including construction, manufacturing and aerospace industries.
Aluminium billet machined pieces
Aluminium billets are large blocks of aluminium that are machined into different sizes and shapes by machine shops or foundries. Billets can be further processed into parts such as engine blocks for cars or even aircraft components for commercial airliners.
Aluminium cans
Aluminium cans are a practical and affordable packaging option, but they’re not very durable. As such, they can be recycled over and over again. When you dispose of your aluminium cans, they’re collected in a bin along with other scrap metals. The material is then sent to an aluminium recycling facility where it’s melted down and reformed into new sheets which can be used to make new cans.
Alumina based ceramics
Alumina-based ceramics are made from aluminium oxides and silica sand. They’re used for everything from commercial cookware to electrical components because of their high melting point and resistance to corrosion. The majority of these products are made using recycled aluminium, so when you recycle them yourself you can help reduce the amount of waste going into landfills!
Conclusion
There are lots of types of scrap aluminium to choose from. Aluminium scrap is essentially alloyed aluminium. Alloying refers to the addition of other metals to the mix, which essentially alters the properties and characteristics of the final product. Sometimes, in the case of aluminium, it is only necessary to add a smattering of copper or manganese in order to create an alloy suitable for whatever application is being considered.
However, when it comes to larger industries, such as a manufacturing facility or automotive industry, it may be necessary to add high percentages of other metals in order to ensure that materials are able to withstand great stresses and temperatures.
Faqs
What is the difference between the types of scrap aluminium?
The main differences are based on the purity and alloying elements in the alloy. It is important to note that these can vary depending on the type of scrap you are buying or selling. There are also other characteristics that are used to determine price and value, such as whether it has been recycled or not.
What kind of scrap aluminium should I buy?
The type of scrap you want will depend on what you want to use it for. For example, if you’re looking for a specific alloy then it’s important that you specify this when ordering so that you get exactly what you need. If you’re looking for general-purpose scrap then there is no need to specify anything at all – we can sort it all out for you!
Can I sell my own aluminium scrap?
Yes! Our service is open to anyone who has any unwanted aluminium lying around their home or business premises. We will come along and pick up your goods in exchange for some cash – easy as that!