Aluminum Recycling Facilities

Aluminum cans are the most common source of recycled aluminum.

As minerals and metals become more widely used, many environmentalists are advocating for widespread recycling. Today, aluminum, along with paper and plastic, is regularly recycled. To be recycled, aluminum must be sent to recycling facilities. While at these facilities, certain processes occur so the aluminum can quickly return to the shelf.

Aluminum

Aluminum is the second most abundant metal on Earth after silicon. It is widely used because it is lightweight, flexible, and has an extreme resistant to chemical deterioration. Aluminum is commonly used in the framework of automobiles, airplanes and trains. Its resistance to corrosion makes it a great metal for food utensils and appliances. Certain construction companies will also use aluminum for windows and sliding doors. Still, the most common use of aluminum is in consumer goods such as beverage cans and foils.

Aluminum Recycling

Aluminum and scrap recovery have been widely used since the early 20th century. However, widespread aluminum recycling did not occur until the 1960s. Green initiatives were primarily responsible for the takeoff of aluminum recycling. Automobiles, windows, doors and cans are the most commons sources of recycled aluminum. About 55 percent of a can's aluminum can be recycled. Because of this and due to its high recyclability rate, half of today's produced cans are made from recycled aluminum.

The Recycling Process at Facilities

After use, recyclers will leave their used cans, aluminum foil, and other recyclable aluminum on their curb to be collected. The entire recycling process takes very little time. In around 60 days, an aluminum item will be collected, melted down, and crafted into a new aluminum product. Aluminum can also be taken in person to recycling facilities.

Recycling Facilities and User Benefits

Many large cities have their own recycling facilities. These facilities operate much like standard businesses and have hours and employees. The Miramar Recycling Center in San Diego, California, for example, accepts aluminum five days a week. Many recycling facilities will offer recyclers compensation for their metal. Usually cans are the most eligible for compensation. Any large appliances such as refrigerators, stoves or washers and dryers that contain aluminum can only be recycled after paying a nominal fee to the recycling center.

References

• United States Geologic Survey, Mineral Information: Aluminum
• City of Clearwater Florida: Remarkable Recycling Facts
• City of San Diego, Florida: Miramar Recycling Center