Description
Aluminum scrap is supplied for recycling smelting and industrial metal recovery.
Aluminum scrap is a highly valuable, 100% recyclable material that conserves energy and resources, often used in automotive, construction, and packaging industries. Key types include Used Beverage Cans (UBC), extrusions, and wire. Prices vary based on cleanliness and grade, with UBCs in South Africa often fetching over R5.00/kg to R24+/kg, and high-grade aluminum extrusions/wire ranging from R21-R35/kg.
Key Aspects of Aluminum Scrap:
- Environmental Impact: Recycling aluminum saves up to 90% of the energy required for producing primary metal.
- Types & Grades: Common types include Aluminum Siding/Gutters (gutters, siding), 6061/Extrusions (high-grade), and UBC (Used Beverage Cans).
- Value: Aluminum scrap prices fluctuate, but it is one of the most profitable materials to recycle, with prices often exceeding R24/kg for cans in South Africa.
- Handling: Contamination with plastic or other metals reduces the grade, while removing copper from aluminum radiators increases profitability.
- Recycling Process: Scrap is often returned to the cast house and remelted to form new alloys.
Common Sources:
- Industrial: Manufacturing operations, machining, and dross.
- Consumer: Beverage cans, windows, and car parts.
- Construction: Siding, gutters, and downspouts.
Major recyclers like SA Metal Group and Hulamin actively buy these materials.
