Types of Iron Scrap

Iron is used in a variety of ways throughout homes and buildings.

Although continually extracted from the earth and turned into numerous products, iron scrap still remains valuable even after it is used. These scraps already have the benefit of being refined, and can be melted again and made into something new. However, the purity of the iron as well as its form dictates what kind of scrap it counts as when recycled. Scraps almost always are worth at least a fraction of what was paid for them, and should be taken to a scrap yard or recycling center accordingly.

Cast Iron

Cast iron is the most impure of the iron, making it very brittle when great stress is applied to it yet it does not shrink when it cools and hardens, and is perfect for casting. Often used in manhole covers, cookware, and other decorative railings and features, this iron becomes scrap when it is no longer usable in its current situation, and is often melted down to make new castings.

Wrought Iron

While cast iron is quite stiff and brittle due to its impurities, wrought iron is soft and easily made in to shapes without a mold. This wrought iron, when scrapped, is generally kept separate from cast iron in order to preserve its purity. Wrought iron was most commonly used for decorative touches around the house and is a favourite of artisans.

Sheet Iron

Sheet iron scrap, also called sheet tin, can contain iron and other alloys in a variety of industrial uses. Generally provided in sheets, hence the name, the iron can be galvanized, painted or coated in other materials. The sheets were used for a multitude of purposes, from roofing to covering and being a main part in machinery.

Iron Oxides

Though many individuals think of iron in its sheet or cast form, decorating houses and protecting machinery, iron oxide is also a form or iron scrap. The oxides, or small particles of iron, must be smaller than negative 10 mesh. The scrap can be powdered or particles. Created by the compound of oxygen and iron, the oxide is used in a variety of ways, from magnets to ATM cards to makeup.

References

• Chem Guide: IRON AND STEEL
• UWC: Make-up: What are you really putting on your face?
• Recycle: Iron oxides

Resources

• Recycle: Scrap Iron and Steel Category