Complete Guide: Scrap Metal Types and Their Value

COMPLETE GUIDE: SCRAP METAL TYPES AND THEIR VALUE

2024 UK Price Guide

Recycling scrap metal is an excellent way to reduce waste, protect the environment, and even earn some extra cash. There are many types of metals that can be collected and recycled, each with its own value and use. Below, we explore the most common types of scrap metals you can collect and their current market values.

1. FERROUS METALS

Ferrous metals contain iron and are magnetic. They are commonly used in construction, transportation, and manufacturing. These metals are widely recycled due to their abundance and durability.

STEEL

£0.09-0.18 per kg

One of the most widely used ferrous metals, steel is found in old appliances, car parts, construction beams, and machinery. It is highly recyclable and can be melted down and repurposed for various applications.

CAST IRON

£0.13-0.26 per kg

Often found in old bathtubs, radiators, pipes, and cookware, cast iron is a durable material that can be broken down and reprocessed into new products. Clean cast iron typically commands a higher price than mixed steel scrap.

WROUGHT IRON

£0.18-0.26 per kg

This metal is commonly used in fences, railings, and old gates. Though less common today, recycled wrought iron can be repurposed for decorative and structural applications. Often valued slightly higher than regular steel due to its purity.

2. NON-FERROUS METALS

Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron, making them non-magnetic and highly resistant to corrosion. They are generally more valuable due to their long lifespan and high demand in various industries.

COPPER

£3.10-6.15 per kg

ALUMINIUM

£0.33-0.88 per kg

BRASS

£2.65-4.40 per kg

COPPER

Bare Bright Copper: £4.40-6.15 per kg
#1 Copper: £3.50-5.30 per kg
#2 Copper: £3.10-4.85 per kg

One of the most valuable non-ferrous metals, copper is commonly found in electrical wiring, plumbing pipes, roofing materials, and old electronics. It is known for its excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance.

ALUMINIUM

Clean Aluminium: £0.55-0.88 per kg
Aluminium Cans: £0.33-0.66 per kg
Sheet Aluminium: £0.44-0.77 per kg

Lightweight yet durable, aluminum is found in beverage cans, window frames, car parts, and household appliances. It is one of the most frequently recycled metals due to its endless recyclability.

BRASS

£2.65-4.40 per kg

A mix of copper and zinc, brass is often found in plumbing fixtures, door handles, musical instruments, and bullet casings. It is widely sought after for its aesthetic appeal and durability.

BRONZE

£2.85-3.95 per kg

Commonly used in statues, bearings, and boat fittings, bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. It has excellent resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor and marine applications.

LEAD

£0.55-0.88 per kg

Found in car batteries, old pipes, and roofing materials, lead is a heavy metal that must be handled with care due to its toxicity. Despite this, it remains a valuable recyclable material.

ZINC

£0.44-0.77 per kg

Used in galvanization to protect steel from rusting, zinc is commonly found in roofing materials, die-casting applications, and batteries.

3. ELECTRONIC SCRAP METAL

With the rise of technology, electronic waste (e-waste) has become a valuable source of scrap metal. Many discarded electronic devices contain valuable metals that can be recovered and reused.

COMPUTER COMPONENTS

Motherboards: £17.60-55.00 per kg
CPUs: £26.40-264.00 per kg
RAM: £17.60-35.20 per kg

MOBILE PHONES

Smartphones: £0.80-80 per unit
Circuit Boards: £17.60-44.00 per kg

CABLES & WIRES

Insulated Copper Wire: £0.88-2.65 per kg
Network Cables: £0.55-1.65 per kg

Note: These prices are approximate and can fluctuate significantly based on market conditions, location, quality of materials, and quantity being sold. Always check with local scrap yards for current pricing. Prices shown are typical UK scrap metal values as of early 2024.

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