Aluminum is one of the most widely used materials globally, valued for its versatility, lightweight nature, and recyclability. Recycling aluminum is not only more energy-efficient than mining it from bauxite but also saves up to 90% of the energy required to produce new aluminum. This makes it vital to recycle aluminum products.
When most people think of aluminum recycling, they think of cans. While aluminum cans represent a large portion of recycled aluminum, they make up only a little over half of the total aluminum recycled. Beyond cans, there are other common forms of aluminum scrap that can and should be recycled. Below are the top four types of aluminum scrap, along with tips for maximizing your aluminum recycling efforts:
For all of your aluminum recycling needs contact NRI Metals Recycling serving the greater Minneapolis Minnesota area.
1. Sheet Aluminum
Aluminum’s malleability allows it to be easily shaped into sheets, which are then used in a variety of everyday items. These include:
- Chemical containers
- Decorative panels
- Food packaging
- Household appliances
- Pots and pans
- Pressurized air tanks
- Sunshades
Sheet aluminum may look similar to steel, as both are silvery metals often used for similar products. To distinguish between the two, use a magnet—magnets stick to steel but not to aluminum.
2. Siding, Windows, and Gutters
Aluminum is a common material for various building components, including siding, windows, and gutters.
- Aluminum siding is less common today but still used, and when homeowners replace old siding, scrappers can often acquire it for recycling. This type of aluminum is thicker and more durable than the kind used in cans, making it more valuable.
- Window components may also contain aluminum, though they may be mixed with other materials like plastic, rubber, and glass. These can act as contaminants and may lower the price you receive for recycling.
3. Auto Parts
Aluminum’s light weight makes it a popular choice in the automotive industry for various parts, including:
- Doors and visors
- Panels
- Radiators
- Rims and hubs
Auto repair shops often recycle aluminum parts, providing a steady source of scrap. Aluminum is also found in other motor vehicles like motorcycles, tractors, and planes. Even an old aluminum fishing boat can be recycled! When scrapping these items, keep an eye out for other metals like steel and copper, which can also be recycled.
4. Electrical Wires
Aluminum is commonly used in electronics. While copper is the primary metal for home wiring, aluminum has been used in electronic components and older wiring systems.
When recycling electrical wires or enclosures, it’s important to separate the aluminum from any copper. Copper is brownish-red, while aluminum is silvery, making them easy to differentiate.
Other Products That May Contain Aluminum
Aluminum is used in a wide range of products, many of which can be recycled, including:
- Cookware
- Household decorations
- HVAC systems
- Lawn and gardening equipment
- Outdoor furniture
- Medical devices
- Sports equipment
Don’t Forget the Cans!
Beverage cans make up around 50% of all recycled aluminum. Aluminum cans are one of the few products that can be recycled back into new cans, contributing to a circular economy where materials are reused indefinitely. When recycling cans, be sure to rinse them to remove any contaminants and crush them to save space.
Maximizing Aluminum Scrap Recycling
To get the most out of your aluminum recycling efforts:
- Separate aluminum from other materials like steel or copper before bringing them to the scrap yard.
- Clean your scrap by rinsing off any food, dirt, or chemicals that could lower its value.
- Organize different types of aluminum (sheet, automotive parts, wires, etc.) to ensure you get the best price for each type.
By recycling aluminum beyond just cans, you help conserve energy, reduce the need for raw materials, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
For all you scrap metal recycling needs contact NRI Metals Recycling located in Forest Lake, Minnesota.
