Metal recycling plays a constant role in our daily lives, from the structures we live in to the vehicles we drive. Recycling metals is not only beneficial for the environment but also economically advantageous. In this guide, we will explore the differences between ferrous & non-ferrous, highlighting their definitions, examples, uses, & recycling processes.
Definitions
Understanding the basic difference between ferrous & non-ferrous is key. Ferrous contain iron, making them magnetic & more prone to rust. Non-ferrous metals, on the other hand, do not contain iron, which makes them non-magnetic & more resistant to corrosion.
Examples Of These Metals
Common examples of ferrous metals include steel, cast iron, & wrought iron. These metals are widely used in construction, automotive industries, & manufacturing due to their strength & durability.
Non-ferrous metals include aluminium, copper, lead, & zinc. These metals are used in various applications such as electrical wiring, aircraft, roofing materials, & batteries due to their lightweight, non-magnetic properties, & resistance to corrosion.
Expanding Upon The Different Metal Uses
Ferrous & non-ferrous metals have distinct uses based on their properties. Ferrous metals are primarily used in the construction industry for building structures, bridges, & manufacturing machinery. In the automotive industry, they are used to make car frames, engines, & other critical components.
Non-ferrous metals, with their unique properties, find applications in different fields. Aluminium is commonly used in the aerospace industry for aircraft manufacturing due to its lightweight nature. Copper is extensively used in electrical wiring & plumbing. Lead is utilised in batteries, while zinc is used for galvanising to prevent rusting of steel.
Recycling Processes For Ferrous & Non-Ferrous Metals
The recycling processes for ferrous & non-ferrous are essential in conserving natural resources & reducing environmental impact. Ferrous metals are typically recycled by being melted down in a blast furnace, where impurities are removed, & the pure metal is reformed into new products.
Non-ferrous metals undergo a different recycling process due to their varying melting points & properties. These metals are often shredded into small pieces, cleaned to remove any contaminants, & then melted down in a furnace. The molten metal is then cast into ingots or other shapes for reuse in manufacturing.
Get In Touch With Ammanford Recycling For Professional Metal Recycling
Whether you have ferrous or non-ferrous scrap that need recycling, contact the team at Ammanford Recycling. We’re fully equipped with the latest machinery to process all metal. To find out more, give us a call today.
