Metal recycling plays a key role in protecting the environment, conserving natural resources, and supporting a circular economy. But not all scrap is created equal. Whether you’re a homeowner cleaning out your garage or a business with industrial scrap, knowing how to identify and recycle specific metals like copper, aluminum, and steel can help you get paid for scrap and support sustainability. At Joseph Freedman Co., we believe in doing right by people and the planet—and that starts with informed recycling.
Why the Type of Scrap Metal Matters
Each metal has its own value, recycling process, and environmental impact. Recognizing the differences between types of scrap metal helps ensure accurate sorting, efficient recycling, and maximum payout.
Copper: High Value and High Demand
Copper recycling is among the most profitable and environmentally beneficial. Known for its conductivity and durability, copper is used in wiring, plumbing, and electronics. It’s easy to identify by its reddish color and green oxidation when aged. Clean, unalloyed copper fetches higher prices, so it’s worth the effort to strip insulation from wires or separate it from other materials.
Aluminum: Lightweight but Valuable
Found in cans, siding, car parts, and machinery, aluminum is lightweight, rust-resistant, and highly recyclable. Although it’s less valuable per pound than copper, it’s widely available and easy to collect. Recycled aluminum saves up to 95% of the energy needed to produce it from raw materials—an enormous environmental benefit.
Steel: Strong, Recyclable, and Everywhere
Steel is one of the most recycled materials on the planet. It’s found in appliances, construction materials, cars, and more. Magnetic properties make it easy to separate from non-ferrous metals. While steel has a lower resale value than copper or aluminum, its volume and ease of recycling make it essential in the scrap metal economy.
How to Identify Scrap Metals
- Use a magnet: If it sticks, it’s likely steel or iron.
- Color and weight: Copper is red/orange and heavy; aluminum is light and silver; steel is gray and sturdy.
- Check for markings: Some materials may be labeled (e.g., “AL” for aluminum).
- Ask an expert: When in doubt, bring it to Joseph Freedman Co. for professional sorting and evaluation.
Recycling the Right Way with Joseph Freedman Co.
At Joseph Freedman Co., we make it easy to recycle metal responsibly. With over a century of experience, our family-owned business in Springfield, MA, offers fair pricing, safe handling, and fast service. We handle everything from small residential scrap to large-scale industrial metal recycling.
Our team values honesty, flexibility, efficiency, and community. Whether you’re looking to get paid for scrap or do your part for the planet, we’ll help you sort, weigh, and process your metals accurately and responsibly.
Let’s Build a Greener Future—Together
When it comes to metal recycling, knowledge is power. By understanding the differences between copper, aluminum, and steel, you can increase your return and help reduce waste. Not all scrap is created equal, but all scrap, when recycled properly, can make a difference.
Ready to recycle with a company that puts people and the planet first? Contact Joseph Freedman Co. today to learn more, request a quote, or schedule a pickup.
Address: 115 Stevens Street, Springfield, MA 01104
Phone: 888.677.7818
Email: info@jfrecycle.com
Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 am – 3:30 pm