Looking to clean the home before the new year? As experts in metal recycling in Melbourne, our team know everything that can be recycled around the home. Recyclable metals include aluminium, copper, stainless steel and brass, so it’s easy to protect the environment from needlessly sending scrap to landfills. Before you throw away the mystery metal, be sure to check this handy list to see if the scrap metal can be recycled (for profit).

Kitchen appliances and whitegoods

Whether you’re downsizing or upgrading, older whitegoods and pots and pans made from aluminium or cast iron are perfect contenders for scrap metal recycling. Keep in mind that it costs less time and energy to recycle the materials in old whitegoods than to produce new ones from virgin materials. Whether it’s donating old cutlery to an op shop or offering baking trays and cookware to a metal recycler, recyclable materials like aluminium, iron or copper wires can be sourced from a variety of old and broken kitchen appliances.

Old whitegoods like kettles, toasters, refrigerators and dishwashers that need replacement can be stripped for recyclable material while washing machines and dryers also contain plenty of scrap metal for metal recyclers. Even older ovens and stovetops are often made from iron, perfect for metal recyclers in Melbourne.

Common kitchen clutter

A common kitchen item, empty steel cans can be easily disposed of in the household recycling bin for easy collection. This includes empty aerosol cans like cleaning sprays or aluminium or mixed metal cans such as soft drink cans, vegetable and fruit tins and pet food tins. Before placing these cans in the recycling bin for collection, ensure they are empty by giving them a thorough rinse. Removing any remaining food or liquid residue will ensure that the metal can be processed appropriately without risking contamination, which can increase sorting costs or risk recyclable materials being sent to landfill.

Simply swilling water around the tins will often suffice so that they appear visually clean, so there is no need to go overboard with dishwashing detergent! Additionally, Sustainability Victoria offers a free program, Detox your Home, to dispose of toxic household chemicals like cleaning products, fertilisers and herbicides, fuels and poisons. 

E-waste and older machinery

With recycling programs for old phones, cartridges and used batteries, there’s no excuse to forget the older electronics like desktops, gaming consoles and iPods. In Melbourne, e-waste is banned from landfill, so If there is an electronics graveyard within your home of broken laptops, obsolete mobile phones or old hairdryers, this might be a swift move to declutter your home.

Electronics are often constructed from a mix of recyclable metals with wiring made from copper – a highly recyclable material as almost 80% of copper that has ever been produced is still in use today. By following the guide to e-waste and recycling metal, you minimise the environmental impact of the product by extending the metal’s lifetime and reducing the need to mine virgin metals. 

Older furniture and fittings

Renovations can also reveal plenty of metal recycling opportunities! Old bed frames, outdoor dining furniture and clothing racks can be constructed from a metal mix that could be recycled, even if it is coated in a decorative paint or lacquer. Bicycle frames, elevated garden beds, barbecue grills and old garden tools are also constructed from metal, so don’t simply allow them to rust in the backyard!

Refreshing your home with a renovation can also provide an opportunity to gather older pipes, excess copper wire, steel sinks, obsolete tapware and metal finishes like curtain rods or window frames to be sold as scrap metal. 

Interested in metal recycling in Melbourne?

With over 50 years of metal experience, Metal Men Recycling provides quick and simple metal recycling services to Melbourne. We take all the hard work of sorting and transporting out of the process with our streamlined 24-hour pick up service. We accept all types of scrap metal benefiting your business and the environment.

Whether you’re looking to declutter your home through metal recycling or would just like to learn more about the environmental benefits of metal recycling, give us a call on 03 5941 6677 or fill out our online contact form.

One of the many reasons to sell scrap metal at a trusted metal recycler like Metal Men Recycling is the environmental benefits of recycling scrap metal over mining virgin ore. In Australia, there are currently over 400 mines in operation with two predominant processes of mining: underground mines and open pit mines. These processes both have environmental consequences, so improving the lifetime of any unwanted metal is one of the many ways scrap metal recycling benefits the environment.

Underground mines

When imagining a mine, many may picture the traditional, deep tunnel of underground mining. This requires a shaft or decline to be excavated into the ground, sometimes kilometres deep, for metalliferous and coal collection. This method is used to extract raw ore from deep below the surface, creating as little waste as possible, before transporting it for processing into useful metal materials. Although technology has improved since the older mining method of room and pillar mining, underground mining still has many associated dangers.

The deep tunnels must allow safe passage for workers and heavy machinery to transport waste ore and collected minerals while also providing ventilation, electricity, lighting and resources. Underground mines must also consider the health and safety of workers including hearing protection, respiratory protection from dust, safe machinery operation and structural protection against the risk of collapse.

There are many different methods of underground mining in Australia depending on ore depth and the structural integrity of the surrounds. Underground mining often involves drilling beneath or beside the ore, blasting the ore and collecting the raw ore and waste material for transport. Some of the underground mining techniques used in Australia include:

• Sub level caving: This method involves drilling directly into the ore and drilling horizontal sub levels, blasting each level at a time and excavating the demolished ore. 
• Block caving: A large-scale metalliferous mining method, block caving involves creating an artificial cavern below an ore body and allowing it to collapse under its own weight. 
• Cut and fill mining: This method can be quite costly due to the refilling process. Cut and fill mining involves cutting and excavating the ore with controlled detonations before filling the voids with waste rock or cement.

Surface mining 

Open pit mines are more common when a high concentration of minerals or ores are located close to the surface. This mining method involves drilling a large pit and blasting to remove the ore for processing. For surface mining, heavy machinery is necessary to remove the waste rock material so that the resource can be mined.

Open pit or open cut mining is generally considered cheaper and more cost-effective than traditional shaft mining as it requires fewer workers and can extract more ore. Open pit mines are also safer than shaft mines as there is no risk of cave-ins and they do not require the utility piping of underground operations.

The main disadvantages of open pit mining include the environmental damage caused by exhausting finite reserves and the associated costs of backfilling and restoring the pits. By creating the large, open pit the area is stripped of vegetation which damages the site’s natural ecosystem. After the open pit mine has been exhausted, further work is required to begin rehabilitating the area to minimise additional environmental damage and reduce the risk of landslides and rockslides if the destabilised site is left unattended.

This requires fencing off the land to prevent access for a period and filling the put with waste to ensure the land is safe for future use. Although this lessens the environmental impact of disrupting the pristine landscape, this lengthy process of blasting and hauling away the minerals and ore before refilling the pit uses an intensive amount of energy and electricity. This produces carbon emissions which causes air pollution and contributes to global warming.

Why is selling scrap metal more economical? 

Recycling scrap metal helps the environment while saving you money and reducing waste around the house or business. By selling scrap metal and contributing to the process of recycling and repurposing brass, tin, copper or aluminium, you conserve the energy needed to mine, refine and transport virgin metals and lessen the greenhouse gases produced during this lengthy process.

Many metals can be recycled and used again indefinitely. A more sustainable choice, increasing the rates of metal recycling has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 300-500 million tons allowing scrap metal to have a positive effect on air pollution. Additionally, recycling scrap iron around the home avoids metals from ending up in landfills and waste after the costly mining process. By selling scrap metal to trusted recyclers, you improve the longevity of the material and take steps towards making the mining process more economical and environmentally friendly.

Are you looking to sell scrap metal in Melbourne?

If you’d like to sell scrap metal in your home or business, consider the expert team at Metal Men Recycling in Melbourne. With our streamlined 24-hour pick-up service, we offer the best prices on the market for scrap metals including aluminium, copper, stainless steel and brass. Our reliable team is ready to cater to your metal recycling needs and recycle your unwanted waste with a free bin service for your scrap metal drop-offs.

Whether you’re looking to sell scrap metal or would just like to learn more about the process and environmental benefits of metal recycling, give us a call on 03 5941 6677 or fill out our online contact form.

With environmental awareness on the rise, many local councils throughout the state now offer recycling services for all your metal cans and containers. If you hosted a party over the weekend, you’ll likely toss a whole heap of empty cans into a recycling bin where it waits for its scheduled pick up. While recycling helps the environment, did you know you might be tossing money away just by throwing scrap cans into recycling bins? Instead, consider a scrap metal recycling centre such as Metal Men Recycling where you can sell scrap cans for cash.

What should I do with my scrap cans instead?

A common misconception with metal recycling is that it must come in large industrial containers for it to be accepted for cash. This, however, is not true. People are often unaware that many local metal recycling centres accept scrap cans of any amount from anyone.

So, instead of putting your scrap cans and containers into a recycling bin, a better idea would be to sell your scrap cans. You can stash them away until you are ready to take your collection to someone who will pay you top dollar. The next time you finish your favourite canned beverage, think twice before throwing the can into the bin.

Why should I bother?

Most scrap cans in your house will likely be made of aluminium which is 100% recyclable. Unfortunately, close to one million cans find their way into landfills every year instead of recycling centres that put them back into circulation.

Selling your scrap cans to a recycling facility can contribute to a reduction of waste and mining impacts. When mining for any mineral, the water, and soil of the mined area is often left contaminated and difficult to restore. Acid run-offs from mines can dissolve heavy metals such as copper and mercury which can leach into water sources while sediments of non-biodegradable metals settle into the surrounding soil, harming both humans and wildlife.

The production of metals used to make cans also requires a lot of electricity and produces greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide which contributes to global warming. Thus, selling your scrap cans instead of throwing them will not only make a tidy little profit for yourself but reduce your overall carbon footprint.

How do I collect and prepare scrap cans to sell?

A good first step is to look around your home and neighbourhood for scrap cans. Almost anything made of metal is worth something, especially if they are made from copper, brass, or aluminium. Once you’ve collected all the scrap cans available in your area, preparing them the right way is crucial to ensure your entire collection is deemed valuable.

Ensuring you have a sizeable collection often takes time, hence, making sure each can is properly cleaned before you store them is necessary. Sugary drinks or food residue left in cans can turn mouldy and attract insects and pests. Your local recycling centre will likely reject your collection if they find a massive infestation of creepy crawlies or unwanted growth that can contaminate other recyclable materials.

Scrap cans should also have their lids properly dealt with before being thrown into the pile. Metal lids should always be left on or inside the can, but plastic covers or ring joiners should be removed and recycled separately. As for labels, you need not worry about getting the adhesive off as recycling centres are usually happy to have these removed for you.

Another step you can take before selling your scrap cans is to crush each can. This not only saves you space (making it easier to transport to your local recycling centre) but sometimes also leads to a higher payout.

What sort of price can I get for scrap cans?

Metal Men Recycling is the best place to sell your scrap metal in Melbourne. We pride ourselves on making recycling your scrap metals easy and profitable. While states such as Victoria are looking to implement a standardised ten-cent scrap containers scheme for each scrap can, the value of scrap cans at recycling centres can change daily depending on market trends.

Estimating the exact value of all the scrap cans you intend to sell can be a difficult task. While it is possible to bring in cans as you use them, holding onto them until you’ve built a considerable collection is usually recommended. The amount you will receive ultimately depends on the total weight of your collection so a larger delivery will mean a nicer payday.

Melbourne scrap metal recyclers

If you’re not sure where or how to store your scrap cans before selling, here at Metal Men Recycling, we also offer free collection bins that you can keep on-site and a 24-hour team for pick up and pricing.

Give us a call on 03 5941 6677 today for more information on how you can collect and sell your scrap cans. Alternatively, you can also contact us by filling out our online enquiry form so one of our team members can get back to you ASAP.

As experts in metal recycling in Melbourne, Metal Men Recycling use X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to analyse collected scrap metal and sort them by materials. While metal recyclers once had to manually sort metals by hand, modern, portable XRF technology has allowed sorting to be more time-efficient and accurate, speeding up the recycling process and preventing recyclable materials from ending up in landfills. Although scrap metal recycling benefits the environment, this sorting technology does pose safety concerns for the operator so certain rules must be followed. Today, our experienced team will detail some of the safety tips that Metal Men Recycling follows to ensure that your scrap metal is sorted with care.

What is XRF technology?

Handheld x-ray fluorescence analysers are tools for elemental analysis. In the metal recycling industry, this technology is used to identify the metal and alloys of scrap metal by irradiating the sample material with x-rays which causes electrons to eject from the surface. This produces fluorescent x-rays to then be emitted by the unknown metal. The XRF scanner interprets the energy of the emissions and displays the composition of the metal, all without damaging the metal. XRF and LIBS technology have their advantages and disadvantages, but the XRF scanning technology’s use of low-level radiation requires some additional safety precautions.

1. Ensure operators have been trained to handle the technology safely

Firstly and most importantly, all operators should be given access to training on safe handling, operation and storage of the XRF analyser. With appropriate training, XRF analysers will only be used for the minimal amount of time needed to achieve the result and appropriate level of precision. By simply improving the operator’s efficiency you reduce the operator’s exposure time to radiation, creating a safer metal recycling process.

As the radiation beam is invisible to the human eye, the operator should be aware of the LED indicators that trigger when radiation is being produced. Always be cautious when the lights are flashing and do not use an XRF analyser with faulty LED indicators.

2. Shielding and PPE

Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) creates a shield between the operator and the radiation, once again reducing exposure to the minimal radiation of the beam of handheld, XRF analysers. Although most of the radiation beam is absorbed by the metal material, a small amount of scattered radiation escapes from the sample. Scattered radiation increases with samples that are low density or have low atomic mass, such as aluminium metal, and decreases with heavier samples such as iron-based metal alloys. 

Scattered radiation dose rates are very close to the natural background within inches of the sample analysis point. Maintaining distance and wearing specialist PPE such as gloves will help to further reduce any unnecessary radiation exposure during operation.

3. Avoid direct exposure to the radiation beam

The spectrometer emits a directed radiation beam that, though a similar level to a medical or dental x-ray, should never be aimed at a person. This is all part of the effort to maintain the lowest possible radiation exposure to avoid any health concerns such as increased cancer risk or skin burns. Trained operators should avoid having their hands in front of the XRF analyser or holding the metal subject during analysis.

Always place the unknown metal on a flat surface to be analysed and keep all body parts as distant as possible from the radiation beam during the analysis process. For samples that are circular and could roll away, place an object behind the sample to avoid handling the object while measuring fluorescence. 

Are you interested in metal recycling in Melbourne?

At Metal Men Recycling, we use the latest technology and methods to make metal recycling in Melbourne simple. We take all the hard work of sorting and transporting out of the process with our streamlined 24-hour pick-up service. By buying an extensive range of scrap metals, our reliable team is ready to cater to your metal recycling needs to easily benefit your business and the environment. 

Whether you’re looking to sell scrap metal or would just like to learn more about our business-to-businessmetal recycling process, give us a call on 03 5941 6677 or fill out our online contact form.

As scrap metal buyers in Melbourne, we often recommended using a magnet to help to identify metal for sale or recycling. This process helps to determine if it is a ferrous or non-ferrous metal and narrows down the material’s components. But why are some metals magnetic and others not? What makes a material magnetic? As experts in all matters of metal recycling, the team at Metal Men Recycling is here to detail metals and magnetism.

What happens when a metal is magnetic?

Magnetism is when a force attracts or repels magnetic objects. When the electrons within an atom of a material move in a particular way, that material becomes magnetic. Spinning electrons orbit the central nucleus of atoms, and in some atoms, like the metal iron, a subatomic force makes the spin of electrons from neighbouring atoms also line up combining their magnetic fields.

This produces a magnetic field that extends outside of the atoms and causes the metal itself to be magnetic. Due to their atomic structure, some metals naturally have magnetism by default, but other metals can become magnetised or demagnetised if certain conditions are met.

3 kinds of magnetic metals

Due to their internal structure, metals can respond to magnets in three ways: ferromagnetic, paramagnetic and diamagnetic. 

• Ferromagnetic metals are considered truly magnetic. These metals are strongly attracted to the magnet and that force can be seen and felt. Iron is a ferromagnetic metal. 
• Paramagnetic metals are weakly attracted to magnets. However, they do not retain magnetism when the magnetic field is removed like ferromagnetic metals. Some examples of paramagnetic metals include platinum and aluminium. 
• Diamagnetic metals are weakly repelled by both poles and are the materials that are generally considered “non-magnetic”. This includes gold, silver and lead. 

3 kinds of magnetism

How long a piece of scrap metal remains actively magnetic can also help to differentiate the type of metal. Metal can have magnetic properties in three ways: permanently, temporarily and electromagnetically.

• Permanently magnetic materials are always producing their own magnetic field due to their atomic makeup, like ferromagnetic metals.  
• Temporary magnets only display magnetic properties under the right environmental conditions. Steel is an example of a temporary magnet as it needs a strong magnetic field to become magnetic. 
• Electromagnets only produce a magnetic field when an electrical current is passed through them. 
  

Which metals are magnetic?

Many metals and their alloys are magnetic due to their internal makeup, while other metals need stronger magnetic fields or an electrical current to exhibit magnetic properties. 

Some examples of magnetic metals include: 

• Iron
• Nickel 
• Cobalt 
• Steel (If it has enough iron properties)
• Some stainless steels
• Rare earth metals

Knowing the magnetic response of the metal helps to determine which metal to use in electrical equipment and other devices. For example, copper is considered non-magnetic, so, copper wire is used in electrical wiring. However, if you introduce a large enough magnetic field, all types of metal will interact with magnets. Therefore, strong metal detectors can still register “non-magnetic” diamagnetic metals like gold and silver.

Are you looking for scrap metal buyers in Melbourne?

Metal Men Recycling is a family-owned team of scrap metal buyers in Melbourne. With our streamlined 24-hour pick-up service, we offer the best prices on the market for a variety of scrap metals. Our reliable team is ready to cater to your metal recycling needs and recycle your unwanted waste.

Whether you’re looking to sell scrap metal or would just like to learn more about the process and environmental benefits of metal recycling, give us a call on 03 5941 6677 or fill out our online contact form.

Recycling old scrap batteries is a process that we seldom regard but is crucial, nonetheless. Due to the heavy metals contained within the various types of batteries, the process is not as straightforward as simply crushing and melting them. There are a few different types of batteries that we use that can be recycled, so keep reading to find out what happens after you sell scrap batteries to a professional and sustainable metal recycling plant like Metal Men Recycling.

Alkaline batteries — the household staple

If you have ever owned a television, purchased a remote-control vehicle or a children’s toy that runs on electricity, then you have definitely used an alkaline battery. Alkaline batteries are your basic household batteries — AAA, AA, C, D etc. and are made from steel and either zinc/magnesium or carbon zinc. Whilst many items that once required these types of batteries are slowly moving to rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (many television remotes and gaming controllers, for example), there are still some appliances that will always require the alkaline touch.

Recycling alkaline batteries is one of the simpler processes and whilst Metal Men Recycling is able to buy these types of scrap batteries, you can also contact your local council about dropping them off at a recycling point. There are two options — shredding the battery and using an electric arc steel mill to separate the metal from the zinc — or, melting them in a furnace and using a vacuum to extract the zinc fumes — leaving the metal to be recycled.

Lithium-ion batteries — rechargeable excellence

Lithium-ion batteries are what occupy most if not all of our rechargeable devices including phones, portable speakers, remotes, headphones and even electric vehicles. As the name suggests, they’re made up of lithium as well as carbon.

When it comes to recycling, lithium-ion batteries can be a bit challenging, but not impossible. A popular and effective recycling method for lithium-ion batteries is via high-temperature metal reclamation (HTMR), which, in this case, involves the lithium (a low-melt metal) being separated during the melting phase and collected as a metal oxide.

Note that lithium-ion batteries are different to lithium batteries which are not rechargeable and are recyclable via hydrometallurgy processing — that is, once a shredder has cut open the battery, a caustic solution is used to negate electrolytes so the ferrous and non-ferrous metals can be separated from the lithium and carbon and collected to be recycled.

The carbon and lithium are also extracted by filtering the caustic solution — the lithium (now lithium hydroxide) is converted to lithium carbonate which is then used to form lithium ingots that are ready for repurposing; some of the carbon is recycled using cobalt.

Nickel-cadmium batteries — the other rechargeable on the block

Not all rechargeable batteries are lithium-ion, old laptops and some power tools use nickel-cadmium batteries. Comprised of nickel, cadmium, steel and plastic, these batteries also utilise the HTMR method but because nickel is a high-melt metal, it is separated in a molten-metal bath within a furnace where it will amalgamate and then solidify during casting — making it easy to separate from the cadmium — which is a low-melt metal and is separated and collected as a metal-oxide just like lithium.

Lead-acid batteries — the automotive battery

One of the more profitable scrap batteries you can sell to us for recycling is lead-acid batteries — the solid units that power petrol-run automobiles. Like the aforementioned batteries, lead-acid batteries must be properly recycled or disposed of as leaving them in landfills can be dangerous and can cause a number of environmental issues. Lead-acid batteries are made from plastic (polypropylene, to be exact), sulphuric acid and lead — the latter of which is a highly poisonous heavy metal, yet, interestingly enough, has a high recycling rate.

The recycling process begins with the battery being shattered at a hammer mill and the sulphuric acid being converted into either sodium sulphate or clean water through various treatment methods. The plastic and lead are then separated; this is done by placing them in a vat where the lead sinks and the plastic floats. Once separated, they can each be recycled in their own way:

• The plastics are washed and sent to be recycled into items such as bins or more lead-acid batteries; and
• The lead is cleaned and then melted into liquid form so it can be put into a mould where it is cleared of impurities, formed into ingots and sent off to the appropriate plants where they are melted down to be used again (most likely in a new battery).

Are you looking to sell scrap batteries in Melbourne?

You can sell your scrap batteries to Metal Men Recycling for some extra cash — whether they be alkaline, lithium, lithium-ion, cadmium-nickel or lead-acid batteries. Our expansive recycling plant is well-equipped to sustainably recycle your batteries or other scrap metal efficiently with simple drop-off and pick-up procedures (for those larger loads).

If you are looking to sell scrap batteries or metal in Melbourne, then please contact us by calling 03 5941 6677 or filling out our online enquiry form today.

There are many environmental and safety reasons to sustainably recycle or sell scrap batteries. At Metal Men Recycling, our experts typically deal with the safe recycling of lead-acid batteries which can be found in cars, trucks and some heavy machinery. These batteries are composed of lead and lead compounds, which is a heavy metal that is almost 100% recyclable. Despite the many benefits of selling old batteries, too often people are not aware of the risks associated with inappropriate storage or disposal. Here we’ve prepared a summary of the dangers posed by used batteries, and how best to safely handle them. 

The dangers of used batteries

In Victoria, used batteries and other e-waste cannot be disposed of in the household garbage. This is due to the risk to the environment and human health that batteries pose if they are disposed of incorrectly. Recycling your AA, AAA, C, D and 9V batteries at participating free battery recycling services, and selling your scrap lead-acid batteries to responsible metal recycling specialists, removes these toxic and hazardous substances from landfill and reduces the risk of the harmful contaminants leaking into the groundwater and soil. 

Improper storage or disposal of batteries can also pose serious safety risks.

• • Batteries can cause explosions and fires as they can emit flammable gas, heat or cause a spark if terminals connect with metal objects.
  • Leaving smaller household batteries lying around creates a choking hazard for young children.
  • Many batteries can pose the risk of corrosion, particularly if their outer shell is damaged.
  • The electrolyte or chemicals within a damaged or leaking battery can be harmful to skin, eyes, clothes and plastics, making safe disposal a priority.

When disposing of batteries, it is also important to ensure that the battery has a very low voltage and the energy has been fully discharged to avoid electric shocks. Despite the many dangers of storing used batteries, less than 3% of all batteries purchased within Australia are recycled, which is a very poor number and a massive waste of recyclable resources.

Safe handling of lead-acid batteries

Used batteries are potentially hazardous. When collecting your household batteries for recycling, it is always best to wear protective gear such as rubber gloves and eyewear to avoid the risk of direct contact with skin in case any leakage or corrosion has occurred. Protective wear could also include old clothes, and in some extreme cases, rubber boots and a rubber apron. 

Batteries should not be stored in locations that could lead to elevated temperatures and should not be placed with other metal objects to minimise the risk of a short circuit. Batteries should always be stored in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and not transported loosely in bags or pockets. Larger batteries like lead-acid batteries can also be heavy, so extra care should be taken when lifting.

This includes having a secure, wide stance, bending your knees and keeping the load close to the body to avoid spinal injuries and strains. When handling lead-acid batteries it is important that you do not attempt to remove any lead or plastic from the battery. Lead-acid batteries should only be recycled by licensed professionals due to the dangerous material inside — this is for safety reasons and to avoid wasting valuable materials. Used car batteries should be disposed of at sustainable recycling plants.

The outer seal is there to protect you from harmful chemicals, such as sulfuric acid, within the battery. Car batteries must be collected, transported and stored with proper care, so if the battery is leaking or appears damaged, cover the battery in an old cloth or towel and handle it with additional care. Remember that although protective gear should always be worn, it is best to also wash your hands thoroughly after handling and selling old batteries for recycling.

Are you looking to sell scrap batteries?

If you have a lead-acid battery in need of safe disposal or you’re looking to sell scrap batteries or scrap metal, our experts have the tools to sustainably recycle your metal waste at competitive rates.

Metal Men Recycling offers 24-hour pick up services for all scrap metal and batteries with a range of collection bins in varying sizes for your home or business. Our recycling experts deliver the bins to you and will collect them the next day for an easy, stress-free recycling process. 

If you’d like to get in touch with us to discuss our services or sell scrap batteries, then please give us a call on 03 5941 6677 or contact us via the enquiry form found on our website.

If you’re looking to sell scrap copper wire, then Metal Men Recycling is your best bet. We deal with both small and large quantities of salvaged scrap copper for recycling as copper wires are in great demand and one of the most highly sought-after metals in the scrap metal industry. All copper is almost 100% recyclable and present in most household appliances and electrical cabling. Recycled copper has the added benefit of being more environmentally friendly and cost-effective than obtaining virgin copper. If you’re new to scrap metal collection, removing any extra attachments on your scrap metal such as nuts, bolts or nails and stripping your copper wire of shielding and insulation materials will ensure a higher price. We’ve compiled some handy tips and techniques to help you clean your scrap by stripping your copper wire.

The function of wire insulation

Copper wires are surrounded by a coating of plastic insulation to protect the cables and surrounds. This is due to the heat and fire risk caused by electricity passing through the material of the cables. The insulation is also to protect the wiring against moisture and allow the cables to be submerged if needed. While simple tools like knives and scissors can be used without problem, wire stripping technology has progressed to manual and automatic wire strippers.

Using household scissors or a utility knife

Once you’ve gathered the scrap copper wire in your home, the shielding can be removed with the help of a knife or scissors and a bit of precision. Place the blade against the wire and gently roll the wire so that the insulation sheathing is scored all the way around. This method requires a bit of practice and patience to be done delicately enough to not damage the wiring, but once you’ve mastered scoring the sheath it is easy to break the insulation and slide it off to expose the wire ready for recycling.

Manual wire stripping tools

Today, wire stripping tools are available that don’t require the precision and skill needed for a knife or pair of scissors. Manual wire strippers are a pair of opposing blades with several notches for different wire sizes. This tool makes it easy to remove the insulation of wires by cutting and rotating it around the shielding being careful to avoid cutting the wire. The tool then allows the insulation to be slid off the end of the wire and removed. Make sure to use the correct notch on the tool to avoid creating gouges or mistakenly removing fine strands of copper wire. If you don’t know the wire’s gauge, place the wire in each notch to find a match. 

Warming with heat will also make the insulation softer and easier to remove with a handheld tool. Consider placing your wires in sunlight to soften them slightly and make the insulation easier to score or slice. Remember to also have a container ready to collect all the stripped insulator.

Automatic wire stripper

Electric wire strippers are the most suitable and time-efficient method of wire stripping for larger volumes of copper wires. This tool functions by inserting the wire into the machine where a sharp blade cuts the insulation for easy removal of the wire cable. This is purpose-built for removing large quantities of insulation, but due to the price, this tool might not be the best option economically for more casual scrap recyclers!

Do not burn your copper wires

These are safe methods to remove the plastic insulation surrounding copper wires, but simply burning the plastic insulation off your copper wires is not recommended. Burning wire insulation in low-temperature fires releases harmful fumes from the melted plastic, containing contaminants that are detrimental to your health and the environment. This pollution ends up in the air and the ash, spreading into the soil and water and being carried away from the burn site. With fines associated with burning household materials in Victoria, this method is not worth the trouble.

Recycling copper wire in Melbourne

Once you’ve sorted your scrap metals and stripped your copper wires, bundle them neatly together separately from other metal materials. This will make your copper wiring easier to manage and weigh to ensure an accurate quote for this highly durable metal. It’s also important to avoid mixing different scrap metals to ensure you are paid the appropriate amount for your copper wire. 
 
At Metal Men Recycling, we strive to make the process of selling scrap copper wire easy and profitable for our customers offering free scrap metal collection bins for businesses and a 24-hour metal collection service in Melbourne. We play an important role in sustainability and our knowledgeable staff can assist you with any questions you may have about the recycling process. 

If you’re looking to sell scrap copper wire in Melbourne and make a positive impact on the environment, get in touch with us by calling 03 5941 6677 or contact us via the enquiry form on our website.  

As scrap metal buyers in Melbourne, we receive all types of metal from various homes and businesses, but we often wonder what some of the most commonly recycled metals are in general. This article is going to explore that question and as a bonus, we’ll throw in some facts about each of the metals to boost your general knowledge; let’s dive in with one of the most recycled metal on the planet, steel.

Steel

Steel (and the corrosive resistant stainless steel) is 100% recyclable; it’s strong, durable and used excessively all over the world. It’s no surprise that this is one of the most recycled metals (if not the most) as there is just so much of it being used across countless industries; it also retains all its properties after being recycled. Steel is constantly evolving to meet the demand of modern requirements. There are over 3500 different grades of steel, and 75% of those have been created within the last two decades.

Recycling steel is considered a simple process because removing impurities is so easy. Even low-value steel can be recycled into high-value steel using metallurgy and the right processing methods. One tonne of recycled steel results in 1131 kg of iron ore, 633 kg of coal and 54 kg of limestone.

37% of steel on average contains recycled steel and half of the world’s steel production uses recycled scrap metal. These numbers are only bound to increase as the industry continues to thrive — especially considering the sustainable nature of forging steel from recycled varieties compared to creating it from virgin ore.

Iron

If there was ever a contender for steel as the most recycled metal on the planet, it would be iron. Iron is the most abundant metal on Earth (as well as the fourth most plentiful element found in the Earth’s crust). Iron is potentially the most important metal on the planet as it is the key ingredient in steel. This is why approximately 90% of all metal refined is iron; the steel demand is so high that it must be met with the appropriate supply.

Being a ferrous metal, iron is easily recycled and is done so in copious amounts. Metal Men Recycling are scrap metal buyers in Melbourne capable of recycling both ferrous and non-ferrous metals so be sure to bring down any scrap iron to earn a bit of extra cash.

Aluminium

Aluminium is infinitely recyclable and a metal that you are bound to come across daily — from aluminium cans housing food and drinks (you have probably noticed the dollar value of soft drink cans printed on them) to kitchen utensils and foil. Whilst iron is the fourth most abundant element found in the Earth’s crust, aluminium is the most abundant.

The process of creating new aluminium from recycled aluminium uses 95% less energy compared to forging it from virgin ore. It also does not lose any of its properties no matter how many times it is recycled. In fact, roughly 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still being used today and, impressively, there were two billion aluminium cans recycled by Australians in 2005. Looking to recycle more than just aluminium cans? Our scrap metal buyers have you covered with our article highlighting some scrap aluminium items that might be found around the home.

Copper

Similarly to the aforementioned metals, copper is completely recyclable and can be recycled endlessly without losing any of its properties. Highly common in electrical components and used for wiring and electrical cabling, copper is an extremely conductive metal with a reddish-brown appearance. 80% of all copper produced is still in use today; so not only is it entirely recyclable, but it’s quite popular to recycle. And, with so much technological hardware containing ample amounts of copper within them, the frequency is only bound to rise.

Are you looking for scrap metal buyers in Melbourne?

Metal Men Recycling are scrap metal buyers in Melbourne that buy and recycle an extensive range of scrap metal. Our organisation is dedicated to sustainable recycling methods and can pay you for any scrap metal you may bring in. Our large recycling site features a weighbridge suitable for large trucks; we also offer several bin sizes that can be dropped off at your location and later picked up by our friendly staff.

Give us a call on 03 5941 6677 if you would like to know more about our services. Alternatively, you may contact us via our website’s enquiry form.

Metal recycling is an easy way to add character to a space while still appearing modern and minimalist for Melbourne appeal. A durable material that’s easy to clean, metal never goes out of style and is easy to maintain in a home. At Metal Men Recycling, we specialise in recycling metal but too often metal and recyclable objects go to waste. To help the environment, our Melbourne metal recycling experts explore easy ways to upcycle your metal products into decorations inspired by industrial design.

Industrial interiors — Origin and metal usage

Factories of the 1700s were built for durability and fire safety, with large windows, unpainted walls and open-plan spaces. After the industrial revolution, industrial design emerged to modernise and revive plain warehouses for more widespread usage. This is why concrete and brick walls are a common feature of industrial décor, combined with exposed metal pipes and structural metal beams to create that effortless vibe. Nowadays, modern and minimalist homes hide structural metal pipes and beams, so upcycled metal features and fixtures are common accents of industrial-inspired interiors.

Achieve this look with your own upcycled metal 

Decorating with industrial accent pieces is all about mixing cooler metal tones, raw materials and textures while emphasising the original framing, floors and bricks of your homes. If you’re looking to replicate this vintage and minimalist style, here are three easy methods of upcycling metal to decorate your home and help the environment.

1. Old metal pipes

Exposed pipes are a staple of industrial design. Brass and copper are favoured in pipes and plumbing due to their corrosion-resistant properties, which allows them to serve as hardy design accents. If you have any exposed pipes available, be sure to embellish them by painting your interiors with a neutral tone. Unfortunately, not everyone has the benefit of having exposed metal plumbing without the necessity of a costly renovation.

You can still draw inspiration from this style by using old metal pipes from plumbing or iron bed frames as finishes around the home. This can be as simple as repurposing pipe bends as eccentric door handles or resting timber across two metal pipe bends to build rustic open shelves. If you have the skills, metal pipes can also be repurposed into furniture such as chairs and table legs.

2. Tin cans

Consider peeling off the labels of metal cans to use as industrial pieces of art or storage. Larger coffee tins can become kitchen storage for cooking utensil, and smaller, tin-coated cans such as diced tomato tins or soda cans can serve as pots for plants suspended along wire frames made from bent coat hangers.

A great way of upcycling tin cans for an industrial look is to spray paint them in gold for a bold accent. You can also add texture to your home by slightly crumpling them or taking a hammer to them for a pattern that adds extra visual interest! Tin can be recycled over and over again but unfortunately, the global recycling rate is very low. Upcycling is a great way to ensure that these recyclables don’t end up in the waste!

3. Scrapyard finds 

Rustic features can be added with worn-out second-hand items salvaged from scrap yards or vintage ware stores for an easy industrial fix. Be sure to decorate with industrial accessories like factory parts and distressed timber to create that easy, blend of old and new materials. Old metal machine parts can be spray painted and used as bookends, tarnished gears can be layered across the wall as an industrial art feature, and wrought iron pieces built for outdoor use can be placed inside for a dramatic, metal look. 

When collecting scrap metal, be sure to adhere to all safety tips. Wear protective clothing including gloves and goggles and wipe down the surface with soapy water to remove any possible chemical residue. If you suffer any sort of irritation by coming into contact with scrap metal, it is important to seek medical help.

Looking to recycle metal in Melbourne?

Completed your upcycling project but still have scrap metal to spare? Metal Men Recycling is available for all your metal recycling needs with a 24-hour pickup around Melbourne. We buy a range of scrap metal including aluminium, copper, stainless steel and brass for an easy decluttering solution with many environmental benefits.

If you would like to sell scrap metal in Melbourne or learn more about the many environmental benefits of scrap metal recycling, give us a call on 03 5941 6677 or contact us by filling out our online enquiry form today. 

Have you ever looked at a mirror and thought “I wonder how they make those…”? Well, you’re not alone. Glass mirrors are objects that we sometimes take for granted and are used virtually everywhere we go. Even walking along shopping strips, some windows may be polished so clearly that they basically become mirrors themselves. Today, our Melbourne-based metal recyclers are going to take you through the process of creating a mirror so you can stop wondering how they’re created. And, the best part? You can actually attempt a variation of the process at home to create your own mirror.

Mirrors in the early ages

To understand the present, it can sometimes be beneficial to understand the past. The first mirrors were made from obsidian around 600 B.C. The stones were highly polished to the point where incredibly clear reflections were achieved. As the ages progressed, mirrors began to be made entirely from different metals such as copper, silver, gold and bronze, for example. These became too expensive and dirty, however, and soon, more modern solutions were discovered that are still used to this day.

Making a mirror

Looking at the whole picture — making a mirror is actually quite simple. Essentially, all you’re doing is just coating a piece of glass to make it reflective. When you break it down, though, it’s the how where the process becomes complicated — even after the appropriately proportioned piece of glass has been cut.

Cleaning and polishing 

Cleaning the glass properly is key to a well-functioning mirror. This is performed by an optical grinding machine that combines a special, gritty liquid with a metal plate to ensure the surface of the glass is worn down to a fine, smooth and even finish. Whilst this can be done by hand, on an industrial level these specialised machines are far more efficient and consistent. For example, industrial optical grinding machines can grind anywhere from 50 – 200 blank glass panes simultaneously.

Coating the glass

There are a couple of different metals used for coating the glass panes. The two popular types are silver and aluminium. When it comes to the industrial production of mirrors, specialised vacuum chambers called evaporators are used to carefully and accurately boil the metal and condense it onto the sheet of glass. The evaporator’s vacuum will actually apply the coating in the same way that steam fogs up a cold window. This method is so precise that it delivers a thin coating of the chosen metal that perfectly covers the expanse of the glass sheet evenly.

Protective dielectric coating

There is a final layer of coating known as a dielectric coating which serves to either add an additional reflective layer or a protective one over the metal. This is achieved by combining silicon oxides and nitrates in extreme heat so that they can form a solid substance — forming a coating similar to how the metal coating is formed.

Making a mirror at home

If you have a glass piece that you no longer need, then you could turn it into a stylish and practical DIY mirror. As long as you have an appropriately cut piece of glass that has been highly polished and cleaned almost flawlessly — then all you need is the ingredients that will make it reflective. Whilst the above process cannot be replicated exactly due to the specialised, heavy-duty machinery — the silvering process can be undertaken at home and involves mixing two vital solutions:

1. Silver nitrate, ammonia and distilled water.
2. Rochelle salts dissolved in distilled water.

Mixing these two solutions together will give you pure liquid silver (saving you the hassle and energy-taxing task of melting solid silver). The liquid silver must be poured over your glass soon after it’s created so it can cool on the glass and stick to the surface. That’s all there is to it. It may take you a few tries to find the correct consistency and mixtures but as they say, practice makes perfect. The only thing left to do is decide if you’re going to decorate it or border it.

Are you looking for metal recyclers in Melbourne?

Making a mirror at home can be a fun DIY — but you may also have other bits of scrap glass or metal that are unsuitable for such a project. When you can’t use them for anything, come down to Metal Men Recycling so we can pay you to sustainably recycle them.

Contact us by calling 03 5941 6677 or filling out our enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.