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.

The scrap metal industry is on the rise, and as scrap metal buyers in Melbourne, we’re proud to be playing an integral part in this expanding, sustainable field. Today’s article is going to go in-depth and explore the current state of the scrap metal industry both at home and abroad.

Current state and the impact of COVID-19

Metal Men Recycling was still open and available for all your scrap metal recycling needs throughout Melbourne’s 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns. But the overall industry snapshot will tell a different tale. As many industries shut down, the demand wavered. Though construction was continuing, it had been slowed exponentially. As a result, the demand for metal materials dropped accordingly. The result of this was less demand for recycled metals to be reformed into new materials.

As several industries recover over the next couple of years, the scrap metal recycling industry may see a decline. IBIS World has predicted that due to this lack of demand, the scrap metal recycling industry’s revenue will drop. The economic decline (as well as the decline of global steel prices) combined with decreased export activity (due to the general drop in global manufacturing) will spell trouble for the industry’s profit.

This isn’t particularly surprising when you look at how hard some of the other countries have been affected by COVID-19. However, seeing as the scrap metal recycling industry is proving to be an incredibly perpetual, sustainable and cost-effective field – there is no doubt that it will bounce back once demand resumes.

Before the pandemic – the environmental impact

The scrap metal industry saw a healthy and constant rise over the last few decades as many businesses began to see the practicality and effectiveness of using recycled metal instead of mining for virgin ore and crafting fresh metal from that. The environmental benefits alone are huge – with recycled metal manufacturing producing a fraction of the greenhouse gasses and pollution that is released when virgin metal is produced.

Recycling aluminium cans, for example, leverages only 5% of the energy required to create fresh aluminium from ore. With the world slowly (with some countries moving faster than others) shifting towards sustainable processes – the impressive environmental benefits associated with recycling scrap metal are too great to ignore and substitute for anything else. The other area it surpasses fresh metal creation in is the cost.

Economical impact

It is much more economical to not only purchase recycled steel but also create it – with fewer resources required during the recycling process as opposed to the mining and virgin creation process. This fact has become more and more widespread and is prompting industries to change their ways – putting a larger emphasis on recycling scrap steel. 

The result is a forecast that would put the iron ore mining industry at a disadvantage with a decrease in demand. This could have large economic repercussions for large mining businesses such as BHP and Rio Tinto as their largest profits come from iron ore – which, along with coke (a type of coal) and limestone, is one of the main ingredients used in producing fresh steel.

What’s happening in China?

In September 2020, President Xi pledged to make China a carbon-neutral country by 2060. This is a huge deal as China is the world’s largest polluter and mines, as well as consumes, half of all the coal in the world. One of the stipulations of this ambitious goal was that the local steel industry had to create less crude steel to help reach the goal.

This leaves a large gap in the market for recycled steel. The scrap steel industry is expected to rise to fill this gap as a far more sustainable option – not only as one that can help China reach their carbon neutral goal but will also supply them with the same quality of steel.

Are you looking for scrap metal buyers in Melbourne?

Metal Men Recycling are Melbourne-based scrap metal buyers who pride themselves on collecting your unwanted scrap metal and recycling it appropriately to contribute to this ever-growing and thriving industry.

Our large site is easy to access and is home to a weighbridge which is capable of withstanding 90 tonnes. For those large-scale jobs, we offer drop-off and pick-up services and provide bins of varying sizes to meet your requirements.

If you would like to contact us to find out more about our services, then please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 03 5941 6677 or fill out our online enquiry form so we can get back to you as soon as is convenient.

As Melbourne-based metal recycling experts, we enjoy seeing the different ways that metal is used in day-to-day life. One of the best recreational uses for metal is for decorative purposes at home. With homes becoming less traditional every day – it’s not uncommon to find a stainless steel sculpture in a backyard or even brass hardware contrasting with wooden details in a kitchen. Today’s article is going to shine some light on several metals and how they’re commonly utilised in a decorative (or even practical) manner at home.

Brass

Brass is an incredible metal that shares many visual characteristics with gold – often being considered a more affordable substitute for jewellery. Brass is most commonly known to be used for pipes and musical instruments. Many restaurants and bars nowadays will have exposed brass pipes as part of their décor.

This is something that would work especially well in a home that’s been converted from an industrial warehouse or factory. Brass is also 100% recyclable which means that if you ever feel the need to get rid of it – you can recycle it for some extra cash and know that all of it will go towards a new brass creation.

Stainless teel

If you’re looking to hang some uniquely shaped pieces on your wall, then you might want to consider some stainless-steel creations. These offer sleek and conservative touches to modern homes that are rich in monochromatic tones (think black walls and white tiles for the flooring). Whilst still suitable for other types of homes – minimalist and modern is the perfect match for shaped stainless-steel artwork.

Moving to the yard – steel sculptures and creations can make unlikely conversation pieces. For example, steel rods can be shaped by specialists to give you incredible designs that act as showcase pieces or even practical parts of the garden. Such pieces would make great aides for climbing plants. Having some gorgeous flowers or plants grow around the piece would further improve the aesthetic. Just like brass – stainless steel is completely recyclable so when the time comes, it won’t lose any of its characteristics.

Wrought iron

Wrought iron is a tried and true ornamental metal that has been used to create countless decorative and practical pieces over the years – especially for the garden. Some of these pieces include gates, handrails and even outdoor furniture. Many rustic-looking garden chairs and quaint tables are made out of wrought iron. Wrought iron is easily malleable but also strong – which is why it’s such a popular option for outdoor furnishings and hardware.

Whilst steel has taken over from wrought iron in terms of popularity for outdoor hardware and furnishings (due to steel’s increased strength) – the rustic charm of wrought iron still makes it a sought-after material. Additionally, wrought iron (being a ferrous metal) is recyclable.

Aluminium

Aluminium is one of a handful of metals (such as stainless steel) that can be used to create backyard screens. These are pieces that are available in varying sizes that can be used to offer increased privacy in your backyard. Of course, they can also simply offer artistic or decorative value in the yard or even hung up on the wall indoors. Lasers are used to cut out pieces of the metal in order to achieve the chosen design. The end result is a clean and unique piece.

With aluminium, you will typically be receiving a lustrous silver aesthetic – but other metals can also be substituted if you’re after a different finish. Aluminium is a completely recyclable metal and is considered to be extremely sustainable. In fact, during the metal recycling process, 95% fewer greenhouse gasses are produced when compared to mining fresh ore for virgin aluminium production.

Are you interested in recycling metal in Melbourne?

Metal Men Recycling is the ultimate solution for all your metal recycling needs. Located in Pakenham, our vast site utilises the latest sorting equipment and technology to ensure that all metal is appropriately classified and recycled.

Our site is equipped with a weighbridge and easily accessible entrances and exits as well as an approved COVIDSafe plan to ensure that all transactions are handled seamlessly and professionally. We buy all sorts of scrap metal – so come on down and do something good for the environment.

If you have any spare scrap metal you would like to sell, then please give us a call on 03 5941 6677. Alternatively, you can contact us by filling out our online enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Along with encouraging you to sell your scrap metal to us for some extra pocket money and to make a positive impact on the environment, we also believe it’s crucial that children understand the importance of metal and how they contribute to society. For younger children, it can still be a bit of a dry topic, though, which is why we thought we’d put together this article detailing some fun experiments. These three experiments will work to ease them into the world of metal, so they at least have a base understanding and are prepared for future information.

1.     Coloured flame test

You may remember this one from high school – putting different metals over a Bunsen burner to see how the flame changes colour. This is a fun one to start with since the actively changing colours will get the children hooked pretty easily. Once you have your safety goggles and gloves, simply clean a piece of nichrome wire in hydrochloric acid and then dip it in a variety of different metals (copper, sodium and lithium for examples) one at a time and hold it to a gas flame. They should change colour.

This is because the electrons are being superheated – causing them to become excited. Each type of metal is different, so when the electrons begin to settle, they release light energy – which are the different lights you see when you put them to the gas flame.

2.     Thermite reaction

A traditional thermite reaction can sometimes be a bit dangerous for children to attempt and can even go wrong for adults. It essentially involves heating up oxidised iron and aluminium to create a large amount of heat and light. There is a much safer way to showcase a thermite reaction, however, and that is by using aluminium foil and rusted ball bearings. 

Once you have your safety goggles equipped, cover one of the two ball bearings in aluminium foil and then knock them together to create a spark. That in itself is a thermite reaction on a smaller scale. It will still excite the children and show them a bit about the reaction that is used quite commonly in welding due to the high amount of heat produced.

3.     Copper plating

Plating something in copper is actually fairly simple and is a fun way to decorate any type of silver-like metal like aluminium or iron (any type of galvanised metal is ideal) to give it a more gold-like appeal. If you’re looking to make something creatively then you could shape your own ornament and dip that in the copper solution – otherwise, just any type of galvanised metal will suffice.

There are a few ingredients you’ll need before you get started – distilled water, hydrochloric acid, a plastic beaker or cup and a 12V battery. Our scrap metal experts also recommend safety goggles. 

1. Pour five parts distilled water to one-part hydrochloric acid (always pour the water in first – never add water to acid) into the cup and stir it with a plastic stirrer. The plastic stirrer is important because if you were to use metal, the acid will eat away at it.

2. Once your solution is ready – you can place your piece of copper in it. Hook the copper anode up to the positive charge of your 12V battery using alligator clips and keep it in the solution for a few hours so the solution can absorb the copper. 

3. Next, grab your piece of galvanised metal, hook it up to the battery’s negative charge and put it in the solution. 

4. Stir it around constantly to keep the particles moving. The longer the copper has sat in the solution, the quicker the plating process will be but once you’re happy with the amount of plating that has occurred you can take it out and see the difference. Keep in mind that some parts like the bottom of your piece may appear darker than the rest since it would have had the most exposure.

5. If you are doing a decorative piece and are looking to create a two-tone effect, you can duct tape the parts you would like to remain the original colour.

Are you looking to sell scrap metal in Melbourne?

Metal Men Recycling highly encourage you to sell any scrap metal you may have lying around the house. Not only will you make some extra cash on the side, but you’ll also be actively contributing to a sustainable and environmentally-friendly industry.

Contact us by filling out our online enquiry form or calling 03 5941 6677 to find out more about our services.

Different metals have different properties – some are more unique than others but most of them define a particular metal – making it ideal for certain applications. Today we’re going to be talking about conductivity. Conductivity is a big one – especially in the modern world where our society relies so heavily on electricity. 

What’s even better, is that you’ll be able to find most of the following metals in scrap objects around your home – which will be handy if you’re looking to sell scrap metal. So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at four of the most conductive metals in the world and talk a bit about them. 

1.     Silver

This one may surprise you, but it’s the truth – silver is the most conductive metal on the planet. The simple answer as to why is because it has only one valence electron that is able to move around freely due to the low level of resistance silver has. So, why do we rarely hear about silver being used for conductive applications? There are a couple of reasons.

For starters, it’s an expensive metal – and, secondly, it is not very resistant to corrosion and tarnishing, meaning its exterior will deteriorate over time – ultimately affecting the quality of its conductivity. It is also not very strong.

So, whilst silver is the most conductive metal – when you take into account its deterioration rate and cost, it’s not very practical for the bulk of wiring applications. That being said, it is still used in certain batteries, for electrical contacts, on circuit boards and for soldering – so you’ll still be able to find some around your house if you’re looking to sell scrap metal.

2.     Copper

Like silver, copper only has a single valence electron and is also highly conductive – just not quite as conductive as silver. That being said, copper’s other characteristics make it a far more suitable option when it comes to many widespread electronic applications. In fact, it is the most popular option for metal wiring and is considered to be 64% more conductive than aluminium.

The lack of iron in the copper also means it has incredible anti-corrosive properties. Combine that with its high ductility and it is easy to understand why copper is the preferred metal for electrical wiring. You should have no trouble finding scrap copper to sell around the house – especially if you’re looking to get rid of old electrical hardware or components.

3.     Gold

Gold takes a bit from the former metals – it is highly conductive, ductile and extremely resistant to corrosion. However, being a precious metal like silver, it is also expensive to use and thus not very practical for everyday applications. Interestingly enough, its level of conductivity has been said to outlast both silver and copper’s since gold’s corrosion resistance is so good that it never tarnishes.

This means that its conductivity efficiency will never waver – unlike silver’s or even copper’s (which will diminish even a small amount over time since corrosion is inevitable at some point). Gold is often used in electrical contacts and connectors as well as gold bonding wire and electroplating chemicals.

4.     Aluminium

Though not as conductive as copper, aluminium is actually a favoured metal for certain wiring applications. Aluminium is ductile and malleable like copper but has a greater strength to weight ratio (it is three times lighter than copper) – making it the preferred material for power lines, for example. However, for small everyday wiring solutions, copper is still the preferred metal of choice.

Are you looking to sell scrap metal in Melbourne?

Whether you’ve got some e-waste that may have some silver in the components or are looking to get rid of some outdated copper wires – Metal Men Recycling is the best destination for you to sell your scrap metal in Melbourne. Located in Pakenham, our vast recycling plant is equipped with a weighbridge and state-of-the-art sorting facilities. We also offer drop-off and pick-up bin services if your site or office requires a large clean-up.

We buy a wide variety of scrap metal including ferrous and non-ferrous types. Our experts can also help you determine exactly what does and doesn’t qualify for the recycling process if you are unsure.

So, if you have any spare scrap metal lying around at home, come on down to Metal Men Recycling and get paid for making a difference to the environment. Give us a call on 03 5941 6677 or contact us by filling out our online enquiry form today.

E-waste – you’ve probably heard the term before, but you may not know what it means. The good news is, it’s not as complicated as you might think. E-waste is essentially any form of electronic waste (the E standing for electronic) such as computers or mobile phones. Today’s article is going to break down the elements of e-waste for you, so you know all about it the next time you’re looking to sell scrap metal.

The definition of e-waste

Victoria’s sustainability website defines e-waste as “any item with a plug, battery or cord that is no longer working or wanted”. If your six-year-old laptop has finally died, it can be recycled. If your television has stopped working, it can be recycled. Any electronic device that is no longer working or that you no longer have use for counts as e-waste and can be recycled at a scrap metal plant.

Examples of e-waste

Why is e-waste so recyclable?

As you can see, e-waste really does encompass a broad range of products ranging from everyday household items like dishwashers to niche hobbies like remote-controlled trains. Some of the larger and even more professional items are made almost entirely out of metal. Washing machines for examples – which are also considered to be whitegoods – are generally constructed from zinc-coated steel on the outside whilst the internal area is made from stainless steel. Additionally, the electronic components that go into modern washing machines can also be recycled as the circuitry will have many copper wires.

Power drills feature metal in the internal components as well as the drill bit itself. The actual tool tends to be made from plastic, rubber (for the grip) and metal. No matter what type of product it is – if it has electronics within it then it can be recycled and there’s a fair chance that the electronic components aren’t the only recyclable parts of the product.

The importance of recycling e-waste

E-waste contains hazardous materials such as lead, mercury or flame retardants. Lithium in batteries is the most obvious example of this. When these items are thrown away, they end up in landfill where the heavy metals and hazardous elements can poison the soil and groundwater – leading to a variety of environmental issues.

By selling your e-waste, you’re ensuring that the items are appropriately deconstructed, sorted and recycled whilst also gaining some extra cash on the side. Recycling e-waste also indirectly minimises the environmental impact since there’s less of a need to produce virgin metals for electronic parts – which cuts down on the number of greenhouse gasses released into our atmosphere. Additionally, it will reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfill – which is an ongoing issue.

What are the recyclable metals in electronics?

Several different metals are used to power your electronic devices and can thus be harvested and recycled when the time comes. Copper is one of the most popular since its high conductibility and ductility make it perfect for wires. Cobalt is one of the lesser-known metals but is actually a common component used in lithium-ion batteries (specifically the cathode) – which is the type of battery that almost every rechargeable device uses nowadays. Cobalt is also infinitely recyclable – so it can be continuously recycled without losing any of its characteristics or integrity.

Even precious metals such as gold and silver are featured in many electronics – albeit in small quantities due to their price. Other recyclable metals found in electronic components include nickel and aluminium – which are both quite conductive. All these metals are extracted and separated from the heavy metals (such as lithium) before being recycled. It’s worth noting, however, that whilst lead is a highly toxic heavy metal, it is actually completely recyclable.

Are you looking to sell your scrap metal?

If you have electronics you no longer use lying around your house – it doesn’t matter how old they are – then consider bringing them down to Metal Men Recycling, the number one place to sell your scrap metal in Melbourne. We buy a variety of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Are you a business looking to do a large clean-up of old computers and equipment? We offer a bin drop-off and pick-up service to make the job easier for you.

You can contact us by filling out our online enquiry form or by calling 03 5941 6677.

Christmas is right around the corner, and, whilst it’s a great time to sell your scrap metal to us, we thought we’d take the opportunity to focus this article on sharing with you some of our favourite DIYs you can make with your kids from bits and pieces lying around the house! If you’re looking for a way to entertain your kids during the upcoming Christmas holidays, then these four Christmas crafts will ensure you a day of fun.

1. Bow tie noodle Christmas wreath

This craft is fun and simple, using materials you can find around the house! All you will need is: 

• Mini bow tie noodles;
• A white card;
• Green paint;
• A paintbrush;
• Green glitter; 
• A red ribbon; and
• A glue gun.

Start by painting your noodles with the green paint and decorating them with green glitter, then, once the paint has dried arrange the noodles in a circle on your white piece of card and use the glue to stick them down. Once they are stuck and dried, tie the red ribbon into a bow and glue it on the bottom of the wreath, enjoy!

2. Handprint reindeer art

This is a great craft that is perfect for decorating cards! You will need:

• Brown paint; 
• Your card or some paper; 
• Googly eyes;
• Sparkles; 
• A glue gun;
• Pom poms; and 
• Some ribbon. 

Firstly, pour out some paint onto a surface and stick your hand in it. Once your hand is evenly covered, place it onto your card or piece of paper. Remove your hand and wait for it to dry. If you want to add some extra bling, then add the sparkles whilst the paint is still wet. Once it is dry, cut the ribbon into a collar for your reindeer and put it over the base of your thumbprint. 

Stick a googly eye onto your thumb’s knuckle and use a pom-pom for the nose – which will be the tip of your thumb. You can essentially do this to any finger you choose – or even all the fingers, giving them different coloured noses from your thumb (which can be Rudolph).

3. Popsicle stick Christmas ornaments

These popsicle stick ornaments are a fun and pretty addition to your Christmas tree – not to mention easy to make. The materials you’ll need include:

• Coloured popsicle sticks;
• Foam sticker stars;
• Sticker rhinestones;
• Twine;
• A glue gun; and
• A pair of scissors.

Using your scissors, cut the popsicle sticks (we recommend green sticks for these ones) into five different sizes, 1”, 1.5”, 2”, 2.5”, and 3” lengths. For the top of the tree where the piece of twine will go – cut ½” off of another green popsicle stick and, using glue, sandwich the looped twine (which is where it will hang from) between the base stick and the ½” piece.

Next, evenly space out your cut popsicle sticks onto the base stick and use your glue gun to stick them on. Finally, stick on your star and decorate your tree with the rhinestones. Now all that’s left is to hang up your new ornaments!

4. Cupcake liner Christmas tree

For this beautiful Christmas craft, you’ll be turning a cardboard cone into a little homemade Christmas tree! You will need: 

• Cupcake liners;
• A cardboard cone;
• Foam stars;
• A glue gun; and
• Sewing pins.

Start by cutting down the side of each cupcake liner and removing the base. Five or six should be sufficient but you may require more or less depending on the size of your cone. Wrap each liner around your cardboard cone starting at the bottom and you’ll start to see your Christmas tree taking shape. Make sure you are securing the ends with either the sewing pins or hot glue gun.

Make sure to cover the entire cardboard cone by adding more strips of the cut-up cupcake liners, overlapping each slightly. For the top of the Christmas tree, roll a small piece of the cupcake liner and pin it to the treetop. Finally, top it off with a foam star. Enjoy your Christmas tree!

Fun metal fact

Did you know that the Eiffel Tower is about six inches taller in the summer than in the winter because steel expands when heated?

Are you looking to sell scrap metal in Melbourne?

If there’s any spare scrap metal you have lying around or old appliances that you’re planning to put out for hard rubbish collection, consider selling it to us here at Metal Men Recycling instead. We can pay you for your scrap metal and recycle it sustainably.

If you’d like to know more about our recycling services, then please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 03 5941 6677. You may also contact us via our online enquiry form.

Many of the appliances and equipment we use every day contain various types of metal. During summer, some older appliances, such as air conditioners, may be worn out due to overuse. However, instead of chucking them out, bring them into Metal Men Recycling where you can sell your scrap metal for some extra cash. Not only will you be compensated, but you will also help to pave the way towards a greener future. This starter guide will help ease you into the world of scrap metal recycling and let you know what types of items are best recycled during the summer.

Barbeques/outdoor cooking equipment

Almost every Aussie household has a barbeque, in fact, they are a summer essential. Most people find themselves using their barbeque quite a lot over the summer, so, when it comes time to replace it, bring it on over to Metal Men Recycling and sell it to us instead of sending it to the tip. Most outdoor cooking appliances are usually composed of metals such as stainless steel or cast iron – which are both highly recyclable metals. 

Some of the most metal-prominent outdoor cooking appliances are barbeques, grills, and webbers. Due to the natural properties of certain metals, they are easily recyclable and can be transformed into a number of different items – all without the metals losing their defining characteristics. This means kitchen appliances can potentially be infinitely recycled. 

Aluminium cans

Aluminium cans can be found just about anywhere and are items that just get thrown out in many households alongside the rest of the rubbish without a second thought. Aluminium cans are a summer staple – who doesn’t love a coke or sprite by the pool? However, what many people don’t know is that these aluminium cans can be recycled. So next time you are having a can of coke, instead of throwing it out, keep it in a recycling container and sell it with the rest of your scrap metal.

Broken down lawnmowers

With summer’s hot weather attracting the snakes, many people are cutting their long grass more frequently. If you end up overusing your lawnmower and need to replace it, don’t just chuck it out, recycle it! Your lawnmower is made up of many different parts – a lot of which are metal. The blades, for example, need replacing every now and then and can be recycled even if the rest of your mower works fine. By scrapping your old and run-down lawnmower or its spare parts, you’re contributing to a more sustainable future and making a bit of extra money on the side – it’s a win-win.

E-waste

On those scorching summer days when you just want to stay out of the sun, a great way to stay entertained is by watching television or using your laptop. If you have a television set or phone, then you would know that there are many different parts which contain metal – whether it’s the case of a smartphone or the circuitry within a television. By scrapping your old or out of commission e-waste, you can be paid. This is useful for when you want some quick and extra cash to put towards your next electronic device.

Air conditioning units

Air conditioning units are a true luxury during the summer. However, if you have an older unit that’s been through its paces – using it heavily throughout the summer may send it over the edge. If this happens, bring the unit and its spare parts to a scrap yard such as Metal Men Recycling and we will be able to let you know which parts are and aren’t worth scrapping so you can get a bit of a financial return from it.

Fun metal fact

Did you know silver conducts electricity better than any other metal? However, due to its price, it isn’t used to produce electronic products.

Are you looking to sell scrap metal for some extra cash?

If you’re looking to get some extra cash quickly, then why not consider selling your scrap metal to Metal Men Recycling? Selling your scrap metal is a great way to simultaneously get rid of your scrap metal as well as make a positive impact on the environment. 

Our metal recycling team is passionate about helping you recycle your scrap metal in a simple, quick and smart way. That’s why we offer state-of-the-art weighbridges on-site and easy drive through access so you can unload your summer scrap metal efficiently.

If you’d like to sell your scrap metal for some extra cash, then you can contact us by calling 03 5941 6677 or by filling out the enquiry form that can be found on our website.

We touched on the evolution of scrap metal sorting technology in one of our last articles, but today we thought we’d concentrate on two specific technologies that are quite prevalent in the industry – XRF and LIBS. These two sorting technologies both have their advantages and disadvantages and our Melbourne-based metal recycling experts are going to be breaking those down for you in this explorative article.

The fundamentals of XRF

XRF (X-ray fluorescence) has been utilised in the metal recycling industry for over two decades and is a tried and true process that has revolutionised the sorting process. The radiation from the X-ray determines a metal and alloy’s content and composition. How does it do this? When the radiation bombards a material (metal, in this instance), fluorescent, otherwise known as secondary, X-rays are emitted. The XRF scanner interprets these emissions and uses it to define the composition of the metal and ultimately conclude what type of metal it is. This is considered a non-destructive sorting method as the metal’s physical shape is not compromised.

XRF identifying machines are available in both handheld and larger, automated options which are great for quickly sorting through a large number of pieces. XRF is capable of distinguishing between different grades of alloys. So, if you have several different stainless-steel grades in a container, an XRF scanner will identify each one specifically – making for an efficient and quick scrap metal sorting process. In addition to distinguishing between grades of stainless steel and aluminium, glass can also be separated at incredible speeds in an automated XRF machine.

Disadvantages of XRF

One of the biggest concerns with XRF scanning technology is that at the end of the day, it is still using radiation to achieve a result – and even though it is low-level radiation that isn’t harmful to humans, there is still some concern over it. The radiation also requires extra PPE to be purchased and worn as well as licensing and regulatory paperwork to be completed. Some of the older handheld XRF scanners are also unable to identify light elements such as carbon or lithium. This is due to the fact that the energy released is so low that it is usually is either reabsorbed into the metal or blocked by the air – preventing the scanner from receiving a sufficient sample.

The fundamentals of LIBS

On the other end, we have LIBS (laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy), which is a newer technology and doesn’t utilise radiation to achieve a result. Instead, it uses a high-focus laser that essentially erodes the surface of the metal. As this occurs, the atoms decay and emit light wavelengths. These wavelengths are actually specific for each element – thus, the type of metal can be determined. LIBS is a minimally destructive method since it does melt a portion of the surface in order to obtain a result.

Advantages of LIBS

LIBS can identify types of metal rapidly as well as perform simultaneous multielement analyses. Unlike XRF, there is no need for extra PPE equipment or licensing because there is no radiation present when using LIBS scanners – which also eliminates the concern of exposure. LIBS scanners used to be much more effective at analysing light metals compared to XRF – however, more modern XRF scanners have improved on this shortcoming. Aluminium is also considered to be easier to sort with LIBS technology.

Disadvantages of LIBS

An expert on metal analysis, John I.H. Patterson, PhD., and consultant for Bruker – a company that manufactures scientific instruments – stated in 2015 that XRF is the preferred method when factors such as accuracy and precision matter, implying that LIBS falls short in these categories. Additionally, LIBS is not as effective when it comes to heavy metals, high-temperature alloys and stainless steel sorting

Interested in recycling metal in Melbourne?

At Metal Men Recycling, we use the latest technology and methods to ensure your scrap metal is sorted as effectively and efficiently as possible. Doing this guarantees that the recycled product is as pure as possible and fit for repurposing in a variety of industries. If you’ve got some spare scrap metal lying around, then bring it over to Metal Men recycling – the home of metal recycling in Melbourne.

We can buy several types of metals. And, if your business is looking to unload a hefty amount of metal, then ask us about our pickup and drop-off bin service that will streamline the process for you. Whatever your need – Metal Men Recycling can cater to it.

So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today by calling 03 5941 6677 or filling out our online form.

As scrap metal buyers in Melbourne, we enjoy reading and experiencing the various ways that scrap metal can be used beyond recycling and repurposing. That’s why today we thought we’d take a look at the more creative side of the scrap metal industry and highlight six incredible artists who use scrap metal components to craft gorgeous sculptures and pieces.

1.     John Lopez

John Lopez is a bronze sculptor and welder who chose to pursue scrap metal sculpting after his aunt passed away in a car accident. Moving to his uncle’s ranch, the Western South Dakota-raised sculptor built the fence around the newly erected family cemetery. When he ran out of materials, he used scrap iron. This sparked a move into scrap metal sculpting which allowed him to experiment and continue sculpting and welding but with scrap metal as his chief material. Lopez has since created several incredible bronze sculptures such as the life-sized bison, Dakotah – which was created by first moulding a clay model and then creating a bronze cast. 

2.     Igor Verniy

There is a Russian artist named Igor Verniy who specialises in steampunk and cyberpunk-styled scrap metal sculptures. These aren’t as large as Lopez’ scrap creations, however, but smaller-scale pieces with intricate details and moving components so the sculptures can be posed in various fashions. Verniy concentrates predominantly on small creatures like birds and butterflies. He repurposes a lot of old jewellery, car parts and electronics to bring his creations to life.

He has stated that his love of science (both natural and fiction), as well as engineering and robots, pushed him to pursue such a passion that allows him to marry his fascinations. Verniy studies the animals and their proportions in their natural habitats to gain the best possible understanding of their anatomy before sculpting them. One of his more notable creations is the symbolic dove of peace.

3.     Cem Özkan

Little is known about this Turkish prodigy; however, his portfolio really does speak for itself. Cem Özkan is a young artist who creates absolutely stunning sculptures out of scrap metal. He studied at Anadolu University in Turkey and mainly gravitates towards science fiction sculptures – forming original creations.

4.     Scrap Metal Art Thailand

This Thai-based studio specialises in creating custom scrap metal sculptures with a particular affinity towards pop-culture figures such as Transformers and those from the Predator and Alien franchises. Some of their Transformers are three times as tall as an average human. They’re weatherproof, very sturdy and ship to over 40 countries around the globe.

5.     Tom Hardwidge

Tom Hardwidge is the creator of athrobots – steampunk insect sculptures which he builds in Shropshire, England. Each of these extraordinary sculptures begins as a series of sketches before being crafted using components such as watch movements and other scrap metal pieces. The inspiration behind these creatures comes from a fusion of both nature and unusually formed metal and beaded objects that “fit together in an interesting way”.

6.     J.K. Brown

John Kennedy Brown (known by many as J.K. Brown), aged 36, from West Wales, creates amazing art sculptures from bits of scrap he finds washed up on beaches. His aim when designing and creating his artworks is to reflect the world around him which is why most of his sculptures are of animals. In fact, his most well-known piece is a blue butterfly which he says represents the state of metamorphism. J.K. Brown learnt to weld when he studied sculpting at West Wales School of the Arts. His work has been recognised nationally many times and has featured in exhibitions of international contemporary artists and exhibited in Windsor Great Park, London.

Fun Metal Fact

Metals will react with most other elements, but especially nonmetals, such as oxygen and nitrogen.

Scrap metal buyers in Melbourne

If you’re looking for scrap metal buyers in Melbourne, then look no further than Metal Men Recycling. Metal Men Recycling are your go-to professionals for all your scrap metal recycling needs. We buy all types of scrap metal and even offer pickup services for businesses. We collect both ferrous and non-ferrous metals at your convenience. Get paid by cheque or EFTPOS for being environmentally friendly and recycling metals on your site. 

Contact us today to find out more about our 24-hour scrap metal pickup services, or simply call 03 5941 6677.

Metals are very versatile and can be utilized for numerous applications including construction and all forms of vehicle manufacturing (automobiles, aeroplanes, ships, and railways etc.). They can also be used to produce home gadgets. The most common metals that we see as scrap metal buyers in Melbourne include aluminium, silver, copper, brass, and gold. It’s not always the usual suspects, though, which is why we thought we’d highlight seven of the stranger metals out there that you may come across.

1. Rhodium

Rhodium, number 45 on the periodic table. Rhodium is a hard, ultra-rare metal. It has a silvery-white appearance and boasts corrosion-resistant and chemically inert qualities. Belonging to the family of noble metals, rhodium is one of the rarest naturally occurring metals on planet Earth. Because of this, it is extremely costly to purchase. In 2013, it was selling for USD $925 per 28 grams. It is commonly used in jewellery and catalytic converters in vehicles – whether it be standalone or as an alloy combined with platinum or palladium.

2. Gallium

Gallium, number 31 on the periodic table. At room temperature, gallium is a soft, silvery, glass-like metal. Solid gallium, however, is brittle and a very poor electrical conductor. It is a post-transition metal. Gallium is an unusual metal because of how it reacts. Its melting point (29.76°C) is similar to our body temperature meaning we can melt it by simply holding it in our hands – yet, shatter it like glass when it is a solid. The oddest thing, though, is what happens when it is mixed with other metals. For example, combining gallium with dilute sulfuric acid and potassium dichromate results in a solution that beats like a living heart. Gallium itself is commonly used in a variety of electronic products.

3. Mercury

Mercury, number 80 on the periodic table. Mercury is a transition metal with a silvery-white colour and mirror-like lustre. It is a good conductor of heat and electricity and is a high-density metal. One of its defining properties that makes it so strange is its melting point (23°C). Mercury’s melting point is also coincidentally room temperature making it the only metal capable of melting at room temperature. It is commonly used in thermometers, barometers, and fluorescent lighting and is quite toxic to humans should they be exposed to it by touch or breathing vapours.

4. Ruthenium

Ruthenium, number 44 on the periodic table. Ruthenium is a lustrous and silvery hard metal with a shiny surface – kind of like foil wrap. It is a transition metal that is considered unusual for several reasons including how rare it is. Ruthenium is dubbed ‘the metal that can burn forever’ on account of it being suspected to be the catalyst behind the flames that have burned for over a thousand years in Turkey. Because of this quality, it is looked upon favourably for both oil refining and low-cost solar panels. It is also commonly used in jewellery. 

5. Curium

Curium, number 96 on the periodic table. Curium has a rugged, silvery appearance with a melting point of about 1,340°C (2,400°F) and a density of 13.5 grams per cubic centimetre. It is an actinoid element. Curium is an unusual metal because of how it glows in the dark. Curium is one of the most radioactive metals on the planet. Because of this, it is extremely toxic. It is predominantly used as a power source for electrical equipment during space exploration missions – for example, the x-ray spectrometers in the Mars rovers.

6. Copernicium

Copernicium, number 112 on the periodic table. Copernicium is an extremely radioactive, synthetic element which scientists still don’t know a lot about. As scrap metal buyers, we don’t often see it – and you probably won’t either. That’s because It has only been created a handful of times since its discovery in 1996. It is a transition metal, though is a gas at room temperature. Even so, it is still classified as a metal. This type of metal is quite rare and has no real-world applications at the moment – it is only used in research.

7. Bismuth

Bismuth, number 83 on the periodic table. Bismuth is a brittle, crystalline, white-pink metal. This post-transition metal’s unusual characteristic is how diamagnetic it is. This means that it is repelled by magnetic fields and, in turn, creates a repulsive force that pushes away any magnetic objects near it. If you were to place a magnetic piece of metal in between some Bismuth – it will levitate. It is commonly used as a colourant in cosmetics.

FUN METAL FACT

Did you know that approximately 80% of the periodic table is made up of metals?

Looking for scrap metal buyers in Melbourne?

Metal Men Recycling are your go-to professionals for scrap metal pickup. As scrap metal buyers, we can purchase both ferrous and non-ferrous metals at your convenience. Get paid by cheque or EFTPOS for being environmentally friendly and recycling metals on your site. 

Contact us today by filling out the form on our website or by calling 03 5941 6677 to find out more about our 24-hour scrap metal pickup service.