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01666 505800

Although it sometimes seems much easier to simply throw out unwanted metal items, given the huge importance that it plays in today’s world, it is crucial that we recycle our metal. There are several reasons for this, the most prominently being to preserve primary resources, reduce carbon emissions and to manage our energy consumption.

To put the benefits of recycling metal into perspective, if we were to recycle all our metals, in regards to aluminium alloys, we could save up to 92% of all energy used in its production. And when it comes to steel, a massive 90% of energy consumed could be saved.

Clearly, recycling metal promises huge economic and environmental benefits.

Recycling metal – The different types

When Recycling metal, it is important to know that there are three different types of metal:

The main difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals are distinguished by alloy properties. Ferrous metals contain iron whereas non-ferrous metals do not. It is these properties that determine what application they are best suited for:

Ferrous Metals:

Ferrous metals are made up of steel, stainless steel, cast iron and wrought iron. In comparison to non-ferrous metals, they have a high durability and maximum strength. This makes them best suited for the development of new buildings, skyscrapers and other industrial applications. Ferrous metals also have other uses they are used in automobiles, railways and even kitchen utensils such as knives.

Ferrous metals are exposed to high amounts of carbon when created and so most are vulnerable to rust when exposed to the elements. However, this does, in turn, mean that this group of metals have magnetic properties which are useful in many commercial situations, e.g. electrical appliances and motors and more. 

Non-ferrous Metals:

Just like ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals are frequently used for commercial and industrial purposes and used to their advantages. Nonferrous metals contain aluminium, brass, copper, nickel, lead and zinc.

Being much lighter in weight but still strong, non-ferrous metals are used in many different applications such as specialist military and aircraft services. Non-ferrous metals have a higher resistance to rust and corrosion as well, meaning that they are the most appropriate type to use for needs that may be road signs, water pipes and roofing.

Unlike ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals are non-magnetic which is great as we use these metals in nearly all household appliances such as electronic wiring.

Uses for Recycled Metal

Luckily today we live in a world where technology is at its finest and metal recycling plants are growing in popularity and efficiency due to their cost effective nature.

Besides upcycling and reusing, recycled metals – of both types – can be used in a number of industries either as it is or post recycling as metal granules or briquettes which can be melted and shaped or as soldering products.

Metal Recycling at Valley Trading

Our process for recycling metal is simple. Once receiving the material onto our picking floor, we meticulously sort out all metal waste material to ensure its segregated. From here it will be further sorted into ferrous and non-ferrous metals and sent to our partner recycler in Swindon.

When in Swindon, this metal waste will be shredded and filtered down further. Once the metals are segregated as much as possible they are then either baled for recycling or melted down to be reused or sent to smouldering companies.

Responsible Metal Recycling

By responsibly recycling all metal waste with Valley Trading, you decrease the chances of it being filtered to landfill and harming the environment. By recycling, you are also actively contributing to reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption.

It is important that all metals are disposed properly and put directly in our provided bins and skips and not in plastic sacks or trays because this will affect the recycling process. 

Our Metal Recycling Service


If you would like to find out more information about our waste management solutions, skip hire or metal recycling methods then please fill in an online quote form. Alternatively, get in touch today to discuss what solution would best suit your requirements.


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