How Are Recycled Metals Used?

Most of us are aware that scrap metal can be recycled, but do you know where those metals are used? Many people are already familiar with the concept of drink containers being recycled and turned into new drink containers. However, there are plenty of other metals that don’t necessarily turn into fizzy drink cans. So how are they used?

Construction Products

There are plenty of construction products that are made of metal and many of these use recycled metal for the purpose. It’s not uncommon to find that beams and roofing are made from recycled scrap metal. You’ll also find recycled products in window frames, plumbing fixtures, and ductwork, as well as other metallic products used in construction.



Food Packaging

One of the biggest uses of recycled scrap metals is food and drink packaging. The cans you get your drinks in are likely made from aluminium that has been recycled. Other tins and food packaging can also be recycled, though, and you can watch for this in the shops. When you purchase products that are made with recycled metal, you know you’re giving back to the environment and reducing energy costs.

Transportation

Many vehicles are broken down and recycled once they have reached the end of their useful life. These metals may come back as new automobiles, but this isn’t the only form of transport scrap metal recycling is used for. You’ll also find reused metal in ships, train tracks, aircraft and even bridges. Old vehicles can become new again when the metal has been properly processed.

Furniture

Many pieces of furniture use metal and these can be designed from recycled pieces of metal that were once in your rubbish bin. From chairs and tables to file cabinets, there’s plenty of uses for the reused metals. This is a good way to give old scrap new life. You’ll also find that architecturally designed pieces, such as the handrails on stairs or the elegant metalwork on a balcony, can be made from this recycled metal.

There is no shortage of items, including lamps and light fixtures, made from recycling. While metal is the main focus here, it’s also quite common to find products that were plastic or glass and are recycled, too.

Industrial Equipment

Around the world, factories and manufacturing plants use new tools and equipment. Often, these pieces of equipment are made from recycled scrap metal and they can be given a new life after they’ve worn down again. It’s also quite common for recycled metal to end up in shipping containers, providing a secure method of moving other products around the world on container ships, which could also be built with recycled metal.

From scrap metal purchased by a scrap company to products you use every day, recycling can turn ordinary items from a scrap metal yard into something far more exciting and reusable. Recycling is key to helping the planet and at Broughshire Waste Metals, we’re ready to help you turn your scrap metal into something better.