How 5 different scrap metals are re-used

Metal is a very important material that is used in a wide variety of products. In a previous article we discussed 3 crucial benefits to recycling metal and in this article we will highlight what products can be created using recycled metal.

1. Copper

Copper is the most commonly sold metal because of its value. The material is an excellent conductor of electricity and is frequently used to create electrical wire, circuits, switches and electromagnets. Additionally, it is commonly used in plumbing for pipes and can be found in refrigerators and cookware.

2. Aluminium

Aluminium is a widely used material because it is a strong, flexible and light-weight material and compared to other metals it has a low melting point meaning it is easier to recycle. Recycled aluminium is used in several different products such as vehicles, building materials, packaging and high voltage electrical lines.

3. Tin

Tin is another highly valued form of metal that has many uses. One of the most common products made from tin is cans. These are made from a tinplate, a steel sheet with a thin layer of tin applied. Other uses of tin can be found in the mechanics of vehicles, springs and flat panel display screens such as plasma TV’s.

4. Lead

Recycled batteries are one of the main sources of lead. Lead can be recycled from a battery and used in a new battery but it is also used in X-ray machines for radiation protection.

5. Zinc

Zinc is a material that we come into contact with regularly because our £1 and £2 coins are partly made out of zinc. To protect steel and iron from corrosion a zinc based coating is applied in a process called galvanisation. Zinc is also used as an anode material in batteries and by alloying zinc and copper you can make brass.

If you are interested in selling any of your scrap metal for recycling, LSPS is one of Leicestershire's largest independent ferrous and non-ferrous metal recyclers. For more information on our scrap metal recycling services please click here or contact us on 0800 083 7807 to find out how we can help.