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Recycling Company in Maryville, TN: Best Practices

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 07:49:35 GMT

Recycling scrap metal is not just a smart environmental choice—it can also provide financial benefits if done correctly—but many people make mistakes that reduce the value of their scrap or slow the recycling process. Working with a trusted recycling company in Maryville, TN, ensures that residents and businesses recycle responsibly and efficiently while avoiding common errors that can lead to frustration or rejected materials.

Tennessee Metals Company provides guidance while serving the Maryville, TN area, offering expertise, clear instructions, and dependable recycling services. Contact us today at 865-544-3050 to speak with a knowledgeable team member who can help you manage your scrap metal safely and efficiently.

Why Following Best Practices Matters in Scrap Metal Recycling

Following recycling best practices helps materials move through the process quickly, safely, and efficiently. When scrap is handled properly, recycling not only reduces landfill waste but also supports the responsible use of natural resources, conserving energy that would otherwise go into producing new metals.

Mistakes can cause rejected loads, lower payment, or create hazards for recycling staff. A professional recycling company in Maryville, TN, helps prevent these issues by offering guidance on proper sorting, preparation, and drop-off procedures, ensuring a smoother recycling experience for everyone.

Mixing Incompatible Materials

One of the most common mistakes people make is mixing incompatible metals or combining metal with non-metal items. Doing this makes the sorting process more difficult for recycling facilities and can lower the overall value of your scrap.

Many people assume that all types of metal can be recycled together, but proper scrap metal recycling in Maryville, TN , requires separating materials before drop-off to maintain quality and efficiency.

Examples of Materials That Should Be Separated

Aluminum mixed with steel
Copper mixed with insulated wiring
Metal combined with plastic or rubber components

Keeping materials separated helps recycling centers process scrap faster and ensures safer handling during the sorting stage, while also allowing customers to receive the correct value for each type of metal.

Not Cleaning Scrap Before Recycling

Bringing in scrap metal that still contains dirt, grease, or leftover debris is a common issue that can reduce the quality and value of your load. Dirty metal may take longer to process and could even be rejected by some facilities.

Scrap metal recycling is most efficient when materials are clean and free from contaminants, and working with a reliable recycling company in Maryville, TN, ensures you follow best practices. Simple steps such as removing excess grease, wiping away residue, and detaching non-metal parts can make a significant difference in the overall process.

Leaving Nonmetal Parts Attached

Many household and industrial items include both metal and nonmetal components, such as plastic handles, rubber gaskets, or glass panels. Leaving these attached is a frequent mistake that complicates recycling and reduces material value.

Appliances, electronics, and construction materials often require preparation before recycling. A trusted recycling company in Maryville, TN, can advise on how to safely remove nonmetal items without causing damage or risking safety. Proper separation ensures cleaner scrap, safer handling, and a smoother overall recycling process.

Assuming All Scrap Metal Has Equal Value

Not all scrap metal is valued the same, and assuming that all metals will fetch the same price can lead to missed opportunities when working with a trusted recycling company in Maryville, TN. Metals like copper and aluminum are often worth more than steel, and certain alloys may have specialized demand that affects their market value.

Scrap metal recycling rewards those who take the time to separate and identify different types of metals. Sorting materials carefully before drop-off allows recyclers to receive fair market value for higher-quality metals while helping the facility operate more efficiently.

Ignoring Local Recycling Guidelines

Every recycling facility has specific guidelines designed to ensure safety and efficiency. Ignoring these rules can lead to rejected materials, delays, or even penalties.

A professional recycling company provides clear guidance on how to prepare materials for drop-off, what can and cannot be recycled, and proper storage methods. Following these local guidelines ensures that the recycling process goes smoothly and helps everyone involved maintain a safer, more efficient workflow. Tennessee Metals Company operates in the Maryville, TN area with a focus on transparency, reliability, and clear communication.

Waiting Too Long to Recycle Scrap

Allowing scrap metal to sit outdoors for long periods can lead to rust, corrosion, or other types of damage that reduce its overall value and make it more difficult to process efficiently, which is why working with a knowledgeable recycling company in Maryville, TN, can help ensure your materials are handled and stored properly.

Scrap metal recycling is most effective when materials are collected and delivered promptly, maintaining the integrity and value of the metal. Regular recycling not only preserves materials but also keeps workspaces organized, safer, and free of clutter.

Choosing the Right Recycling Partner

Working with the right recycling partner makes a major difference in the efficiency, safety, and profitability of your recycling efforts. A reliable provider offers clear guidance, friendly service, and consistent standards that simplify the process.

A trusted recycling company in Maryville, TN, ensures that customers understand how to sort, clean, and deliver materials properly. Tennessee Metals Company focuses on providing dependable recycling solutions while helping clients maximize the value of their scrap metal. Learn more about scrap metal recycling , accepted materials and preparation tips.

Get Started With Expert Scrap Metal Recycling Today

Recycle smarter and avoid common mistakes by working with a trusted recycling company in Maryville, TN, that provides expert guidance and reliable service. Call us at 865-544-3050 now to speak with our knowledgeable team or send us a message to get started today and ensure your scrap metal is handled efficiently and responsibly while serving the Maryville, TN area.

Recycling Company Near Maryville, TN: 5 Tips to Know

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:57:36 GMT

If you’re looking for a reliable recycling company near Maryville, TN, Tennessee Metals Company, LLC is your go-to solution. Based in Knoxville, TN, we proudly serve the Maryville area with safe, efficient, and profitable scrap metal recycling services. From homeowners clearing out old appliances to contractors managing construction debris, we provide expert guidance every step of the way. Call us today at 865-544-3050 to get started.

At Tennessee Metals Company, LLC, we are committed to making scrap metal recycling easy and rewarding. Our team ensures that all materials are handled responsibly, maximizing value while supporting sustainable practices. By choosing a trusted recycling company near Maryville, TN, you’re not only getting fair compensation for your scrap metals but also contributing to a cleaner, greener community.

In this article, we’ll share five practical tips to help you get the most out of scrap metal recycling for Maryville, TN , covering everything from sorting metals to safe handling practices. Following these expert tips ensures that your recycling process remains organized, environmentally responsible, and financially rewarding, allowing you to maximize both efficiency and returns.

1. Sort Your Metals to Maximize Value

One of the most effective ways to get the best return from scrap metal is to sort your metals properly. Sorting separates ferrous metals, which contain iron, from non-ferrous metals like aluminum, copper, and brass. Non-ferrous metals are generally more valuable and can significantly increase your earnings.

A simple magnet test can help identify the type of metal: if a magnet sticks, it’s ferrous; if it doesn’t, it’s non-ferrous. Properly sorting your metals not only increases their value but also makes scrap metal recycling for Maryville, TN more efficient. By bringing sorted materials to Tennessee Metals Company, LLC, you help streamline the recycling process while ensuring you receive the best possible price for your metals.

2. Remove Contaminants for Better Quality

Contaminants like plastics, rubber, and insulation can lower the value of scrap metals. Before visiting a recycling company near Maryville, TN, it’s important to remove these materials. Stripping insulation from copper wires or removing plastic coverings from aluminum can make a notable difference in value.

Additionally, cleaning metals to remove rust, paint, or other coatings improves their overall quality and value. When you bring clean, uncontaminated materials to a trusted recycling company near Maryville, TN, the recycling process becomes more efficient, and your returns increase. Taking the time to properly prepare your scrap metals not only boosts your profits but also supports a more sustainable and eco-friendly recycling system.

3. Practice Safe Handling and Storage

Safety is essential when working with scrap metals, and taking proper precautions can prevent accidents. Sharp edges, heavy items, and chemicals all pose potential risks if not handled correctly. When working with metals for a recycling company near Maryville, TN, always wear protective gloves, steel-toed boots, and safety glasses. For larger or heavier pieces, use appropriate lifting techniques or equipment to ensure a safe and injury-free recycling process.

Proper storage is also important. Keep your scrap metals in a dry, secure location to prevent rusting and unauthorized access. Bins, containers, or designated storage areas help keep materials organized and make transport easier when visiting a scrap metal recycling center for Maryville, TN. A safe and organized workspace ensures that your recycling process is both efficient and accident-free.

4. Stay Informed About Scrap Metal Prices

Scrap metal prices fluctuate regularly due to market demand and supply factors. Staying informed about current pricing ensures that you maximize your returns. Tennessee Metals Company, LLC provides up-to-date pricing information on our website and can advise you on the best times to bring in your materials.

While timing can influence returns, the quality and cleanliness of your metals should always come first. High-quality, properly sorted, and contaminant-free metals generate higher earnings than large quantities of mixed or dirty materials. By staying informed and preparing your materials carefully, you can maximize the benefits of scrap metal recycling for Maryville, TN and ensure a more profitable and efficient recycling experience.

5. Choose a Trusted Recycling Company Near Maryville, TN

Selecting a reliable recycling company near Maryville, TN is essential. At Tennessee Metals Company, LLC, we pride ourselves on transparent, honest, and efficient recycling services . Whether you’re recycling a small amount of household metal or managing industrial scrap, our team handles every project with professionalism and care.

We are committed to sustainable practices, helping the environment while offering competitive pricing for your metals. Choosing a trusted company means fair compensation, eco-friendly recycling, and expert guidance throughout the process. Our staff is highly experienced, making the recycling process smooth and stress-free for all customers.

Partner With Us for Efficient Scrap Metal Recycling

Many recycling companies, including ours, provide specialized services for large or complex scrap items. At Tennessee Metals Company, LLC, we assist with appliances, electronics, and industrial metals that require careful handling. By working with a trusted recycling company near Maryville, TN and discussing your needs in advance, you can ensure a smooth, efficient, and customized recycling process that meets your specific requirements.

If you’re looking for a dependable recycling company near Maryville, TN, Tennessee Metals Company, LLC is ready to help. By sorting metals, removing contaminants, practicing safe handling, staying informed about prices, and choosing a trusted recycler, you can maximize your recycling benefits while contributing to a healthier environment.

Call us today at (865) 544-3050 or visit our contact page to get started. Let us help you turn your scrap metal into cash while supporting sustainable practices in Maryville, TN.

Environmental Impact of Scrap Metal Recycling in Maryville

Fri, 23 May 2025 14:58:43 GMT

Scrap metal recycling in Maryville plays a powerful role in promoting environmental sustainability. Whether you're cleaning out your garage or managing large-scale industrial waste, working with a trusted recycling company like Tennessee Metals Company helps reduce pollution, conserve natural resources, and support a cleaner community.

How Scrap Metal Recycling in Maryville Protects Natural Resources

When metals such as steel, aluminum, and copper are recycled, it drastically reduces the need to mine raw materials. Mining is energy-intensive and damages ecosystems, pollutes water, and destroys natural habitats. Recycling helps offset this damage by preserving the earth's limited supply of raw materials. For example, recycling one ton of steel saves 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal, and 120 pounds of limestone. Those numbers add up quickly when you consider the volume of metal that can be processed by a local Recycling Company.

Energy Savings Through Recycling

Another major environmental benefit of scrap metal recycling in Maryville is energy conservation. Producing metal from recycled materials uses significantly less energy compared to manufacturing from virgin ore. Recycled aluminum, for instance, requires 95% less energy, while steel and copper also offer major energy savings. Reducing energy use means fewer greenhouse gas emissions and less strain on the power grid. Businesses and individuals who recycle metal with Tennessee Metals Company are directly contributing to a lower-carbon future for Maryville.

Boosting the Circular Economy With a Recycling Company in Maryville

Scrap metal recycling also supports the growing circular economic system where materials are reused continuously to minimize waste. Unlike other materials, metal doesn’t degrade after recycling. It can be reused over and over without losing its quality. When you work with a reliable Recycling Company in Maryville, you help keep valuable metals in use rather than letting them end up in landfills. This benefits the local economy, creates jobs, and reduces environmental harm. Whether you’re recycling copper wiring, car parts, or heavy machinery, every item makes a difference.

Contact Us for Scrap Metal Recycling in Maryville

Explore how recycling metals in Maryville helps the environment and conserves natural resources. At Tennessee Metals Company, we provide dependable, accessible recycling solutions for individuals and businesses alike. We accept a wide range of scrap metal and make it easy for you to take part in sustainable practices. If you're ready to reduce waste, save energy, and make a lasting environmental impact, contact us to learn more about our services and how you can get started with scrap metal recycling in Maryville.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recycling Batteries

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Many toys, watches, electronic equipment, and household goods contain batteries. The most common types are alkaline batteries, such as AA or C batteries, nickel cadmium batteries, such as rechargeable AAA or AA batteries, and lithium-ion batteries, the rechargeable batteries commonly used in cell phones and digital cameras. If you have old batteries lying around your home, you may not realize that you can recycle them. Here are a few of the questions you may have about recycling batteries, as well as the answers.

Are You Legally Required to Recycle Batteries?

Under federal law, you cannot dispose of nickel, cadmium, and lead batteries in the regular trash. These must be recycled or disposed of in accordance with Universal Waste laws.

All other types of batteries are subjected to recycling laws set by the state. Some states have tougher laws than others. For example, in California, all types of batteries must be recycled or disposed of in accordance with Universal Waste federal laws. Other states, such as Tennessee, are laxer and have no additional laws outside of what is federally required.

Why Is It Important to Recycle Batteries?

While you may not legally be required to recycle every type of battery you come across and use, there are still many reasons why you should do so.

The biggest reason why you should recycle batteries is that non-recycled batteries are harmful to the environment. They contain heavy metals and corrosive materials. When sent to a landfill, these items can seep through the soil as the battery breaks down.

From there, the toxins can travel to streams, creeks, rivers, and lakes. The toxins harms our drinking water supply and can harm wildlife that relies on these sources to drink.

Additionally, batteries are highly flammable and can be hard to put out once on fire. The batteries can spark a huge fire in a landfill or decrease the chances of it becoming contained timely.

Can You Get Paid to Recycle Batteries?

Yes. Batteries contain nonferrous metal. Metal recyclers will often pay you the going scrap metal or nonferrous metal rates for the batteries you have. It is important to note that rates do fluctuate daily, and you will not get rich selling your old batteries. However, it is nice to get a bit of extra pocket change for doing the right thing.

Where Can You Recycle Batteries?

The easiest way to find out where you can recycle batteries in your area is to do a search on your computer. If you are unable to locate anyone who takes batteries, call metal recyclers in your area. If they do not recycle the batteries themselves, they should be able to refer you to companies who do. You can also call your local waste management or garbage company. They can provide you with information on how to dispose of items that do not belong in your trash, including batteries.

Lastly, check with home improvement stores, warehouse stores, or electronics companies. Many larger companies, such as Home Depot, Lowes, Best Buy, and Staples have battery recycling bins in the store. If you decide to use one of these bins, it is important to note that you will not get paid. However, convenience may make it an easy option for some people.

If you are in the greater Knoxville, TN area and are looking for a place to recycle your used batteries, turn to Tennessee Metals Company, LLC. We can help both individuals and businesses turn their old batteries into money while also helping you to do your part to help the environment. Contact us today for more information or to inquire about current recycling rates.

5 Tips for Holding a Scrap Metal Donation Drive for Fundraising

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Whether you're the parent leader of a school booster group or an organizer of a local charity, you may find yourself running low on ideas for yet another year of fundraising efforts. Your group, charity or cause doesn't need a specific environmental theme to benefit from the green appeal of a recycling drive that also happens to raise money for your goal.

How can you clean up the neighborhood and raise money at the same time? By running a scrap metal donation drive. Try these five tips to maximize your returns and minimize hiccups.

1. Consider Storage Space

If you're used to holding fundraisers in public places like parking lots and flea markets, you may not have an office, storage unit or other area set aside for storing the donations you receive. Renting storage space is often worth the small monthly expense if you receive a lot of interest from the community and need a few weeks to let everyone bring in their metal goods.

2. Try a Direct Drop

However, many fundraisers likely benefit from a direct-drop arrangement where donations are delivered directly to the scrap metal recycling company. The recycling company receiving the incoming scrap may also set up numerous public drop points and retrieve the materials as they stack up in the bins or boxes.

Direct-drop arrangements take a lot of the extra work out of running a scrap metal recycling fundraiser, particularly if you and your fundraising team are brand-new to the challenges of raising money through metal collection.

3. Recruit a Sorting Crew

Putting more of the labor onto the scrap metal company limits how much you'll receive in exchange for the donations. To maximize every dollar coming from the scrap metal, you'll need a crew of volunteers to sort materials into piles of a single type of metal at a time.

Sorting copper wire out from copper pipe might seem excessive, but it allows you to get a fair price on every single item going to the recycling plant. Train your volunteers on how to compare the various grades and different metals and what to avoid, such as accidentally releasing Freon from air conditioners and other appliances. Volunteers can also be utilized to pick up large equipment in rented trucks or even haul unwanted vehicles to the scrap yard for the biggest donations.

4. Focus on High-Value Metals

Copper, aluminum and brass all top out the list of the most valuable scrap metals by pound. But bright and shiny copper wire (the thicker the better) is worth more than a piece of reclaimed sheeting or a length of used pipe. Ask your scrap metal partner which metals they're paying the most for and make sure your promotional materials mention the common sources specifically so the people donating are reminded of what to bring along.

5. Avoid Electronic Waste

Finally, redirect electronic waste like laptops, computers, old cellphones and other devices to recycling sources in the community prepared to handle those items. Scrap metal recyclers tend to avoid them because these devices contain plenty of potentially toxic or dangerous compounds.

Plenty of national programs are willing to provide shipping boxes for donations of free electronic waste in need of proper handling. Setting up a separate collection box for electronics can help keep them out of your scrap metal donation areas.

Looking for a partner who can give you great rates on all types of scrap metal so your next fundraiser is a rousing success? Call us at Tennessee Metals Company, LLC to discuss your plans and find out how we can help you raise money.

3 Ways Recycling Scrap Metal Is Good for Your Business

Thu, 07 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Whether you own a construction business, a restaurant or anything in between, you most likely create more scrap metal than you realize. While a lot of business owners simply throw out their unused scrap metal, there is actually a much better use for it that would help your business: recycling. Here are a few ways that recycling scrap metal can help your business.

1. Income

You might not have known this, but you can increase the income of your business by recycling your scrap metal. The amount scrap yards will pay per pound varies depending on your location, but the range is generally somewhere between $0.11 and $2.71 per pound depending on the type of metal you are throwing out.

Businesses in the construction and manufacturing industry create tons of scrap metal, but even if you own a different type of business, there is likely more scrap metal lying around than you realize. For example, soda cans, old window frames, electronic scraps from your last system update (also called e-waste), used plumbing parts and more could all be recycled as scrap metal. Every business creates scrap metal, so you should be profiting from it.

2. Environment

Recycling uses less energy to process than mining. It also leaves more room in landfills for things like Saturday's leftovers and other non-recyclable materials. Having less bulky metals in the landfills means less need for new landfills near your home and business.

But you're probably wondering how helping the environment can help your business. Well, it can't — at least not directly. But when people find out that your business is becoming environmentally friendly, you'll probably drum up some new business from those who find high standards to be an important factor.

3. Economy

No matter where you live or what your business is doing, a good economy is good for everyone. Recycling boosts the economy by providing more jobs. Jobs in the landfills are plentiful, but there are even more in the recycling business.

Across the U.S., the recycling industry has generated about $90 billion. Local businesses can encourage this boost in the economy by recycling their scrap metal. And a boost in the local economy will bring in new customers for you, so it's a win-win.

There are a few things to keep in mind when you're first starting out selling your scrap metal, including two ways you can increase how much you get paid for your metal.

Clean your scrap metal before you take it in. You can do this yourself or you can hire someone to do it. But keep in mind that hiring someone to clean your scrap metal will cut into your profits.

Bringing in clean metals to the scrap yard means you'll get paid more per pound because they don't have to clean it for you. If it's too dirty, some scrap metal recycling services won't even take it, so take the time to clean it up a little. The extra effort will be worth it in the end.

Sorting your metal will also increase the price per pound. Different metals are worth different amounts and if you bring in an assortment of metals that hasn't been sorted yet then you will get paid for the cheaper metals rather than the more expensive ones.

Recycling your used scrap metal is not only good for the environment and the economy but also your business. Tennessee Metals Company, LLC is the place to go for all of your scrap metal recycling needs. Come visit us and we'll show you in person how recycling your scrap metal can help your business.

3 Things to Know About Scrap Metal Recycling in Tennessee

Sat, 01 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Once upon a time, scrap metal was consigned to the garbage dump along with other unwanted materials. With advances in recycling technology, it is now possible to make new use of old metals. Not only that, but this process can usually generate a tidy little profit for both the seller and the buyer of the scrap metal.

That doesn't mean that you can simply show up at a metal recycling facility and hand over your scrap. Tennessee state laws regulate the sales of scrap metal in ways that it is important to know about. If you would like to learn more about what types of scrap metal you can—and can't sell—in Tennessee, read on. It article will discuss three important pieces of information.

Seller Restrictions Apply to Certain Pieces of HVAC Equipment

There is no denying that old or non-functioning air conditioners represent potential goldmines where scrap metal is concerned. This is especially true when it comes to certain copper-rich components such as the condenser or the evaporator coil. Copper is one of the most valuable of all scrap metals.

Of course, that doesn't mean that, as a homeowner, you can simply waltz into a scrap metal recycling facility and expect to sell old air conditioning components. On the contrary, there are some very strict and very specific regulations in place about who can sell such items. It is intended to discourage the sales of stolen or misappropriated HVAC equipment. It is also because such components may still contain a certain amount of potentially toxic refrigerant.
For these reasons, a scrap metal recycler will only accept air conditioning components if one of the following three conditions is met:

The seller is a licensed HVAC contractor.
The seller and/or their company holds permits allowing them to conduct installation and maintenance on residential HVAC equipment.
The seller and/or their company holds a business tax license with a Class 4 classification.

Furthermore, scrap metal recyclers are prohibited from paying for evaporator coils or condensers in cash. Rather, they must issue either a check or a money order to the seller's company. This payment may not be presented directly to the seller at the time of sale, but must instead be mailed to the company's business address.

Beer Kegs Cannot Legally Be Recycled.

A beer keg represents a surprisingly valuable amount of metal. In fact, a single empty beer keg may possess a scrap metal value of 30 dollars or more. This fact has contributed to alarming numbers of beer keg thefts in recent years. For instance, in 2007, it was estimated that as many as 300,000 beer kegs were stolen to be sold as scrap metal. It represented a loss of around $50 million dollars.

For this reason, Tennessee and most other states have implemented strict laws preventing recyclers from purchasing metal beer kegs. This restriction applies equally to damaged and undamaged kegs, as well as to any metal which can be recognized as having come from a beer keg.

Minors Are Not Legally Allowed to Sell Scrap Metal.

Selling scrap metal may strike many youngsters as a perfect hobby, one that will allow them to earn a little bit of extra money. Tennessee law prohibits scrap metal dealers from purchasing metal from any individual under the age of 18. Teenagers who are eager to join the ranks of scrap metal sellers will simply have to wait until they are old enough to do business.

Conclusion

Selling scrap metal is a great way to turn unwanted materials into cash. It is important to understand the rules and regulations that govern this world before getting involved. Likewise, it is highly recommended that you find a reputable scrap metal company to sell your metal to. It will make the process—and the payout—as simple and stress-free as possible.

What Recycled Scrap Metal Becomes

Wed, 03 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The term “circular economy” may not be familiar to you, but it’s the idea that all manufactured things can be recreated once it has lost its commercial use. Your company probably uses recycled metal products on a daily basis. Scrap metal can be recycled for use in many different industries.

Road Construction

One of the major uses of recycled metal is in construction materials. The circle of life presents itself as many car scrap metals can be used to in road construction, especially in bridges.

Light Fixtures

Recycled scrap metal often turns into home décor, especially light fixtures. Many decorative hanging lights and lamps are made from recycled materials.

Artwork and Decorative Metalwork

Many artists use recycled metal to create their art—some use recycled metals exclusively! Recycled metals can be turned into large metal sculptures or small wall displays.

Packaging

Steel and aluminum are frequently recycled into packaging material. In fact, many food cans are created from recycled materials.

When you recycle your scrap metal, it can turn into many useful items. Your business is most likely a part of the circular economy already, but making an effort to be recycle scrap metal more can be beneficial to both your bottom line and the environment. To learn more about why recycling scrap metal is good for the environment, contact Tennessee Metals Company, LLC.

Why Recycling Scrap Metal Is Good For The Environment

Wed, 01 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Aluminum, brass, copper, steel and zinc are just a few of the many metals that help make the world go round, as these elements can be found in everything from electrical wiring to batteries and car parts. Many of these metals are created from sources that are not renewable, which is part of why recycling them is so important for our future. Here are three important reasons why recycling scrap metal is good for the environment.

Save Money

Some metals, when recycled, are worth nearly the same as new metals, and choosing to reuse these metals instead of creating new can help save on labor costs as well as the cost of materials.

Save Time

Mining for metal takes time and resources. When metals are reused instead of generated, companies can save their time and energy for manufacturing and creating instead of mining and excavation.

Save the Planet

Mining and manufacturing metals can lead to pollution of the air, earth and streams. By recycling metal, companies can leave behind a smaller carbon footprint. Using recycled materials can also help protect natural resources for future generations of humans, wildlife and the environment.

Recycling scrap metal can help materials have a new life in another form, and it can keep usable metals out of landfills. To learn more about why recycling scrap metal is good for the environment, contact Tennessee Metals Company, LLC.

Differences Between Non-Ferrous and Ferrous Metals

Sun, 01 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Many people wonder what the difference between non-ferrous and ferrous metal is. In short, ferrous metals and alloys are those that contain iron, and non-ferrous metals don’t. That’s easy to explain to someone, but when it comes to scrap metal, you should know what each type looks like. Luckily, there are various characteristics of each to help you differentiate.

Ferrous Metal Characteristics

Wrought iron, carbon steel, mild steel, cast iron and stainless steel are considered ferrous metals . These metals are known for their durability and tensile strength, which is why they have numerous uses. Mild steel is used to hold up huge bridges and skyscrapers. Common uses for ferrous metals include construction, automobiles, kitchen knives, hardware, tools and transportation rails. Ferrous metals, aside from stainless steel and wrought iron, are prone to rust due to the carbon used when they are created. Additionally, ferrous metals have magnetic properties.

Non-Ferrous Metals

Zinc, nickel, aluminum, copper, brass, lead, tin, silver and gold are considered non-ferrous metals. These metals can be used for strength, but they are more malleable. They are, additionally, much lighter than ferrous metals, which is why they are used in instances where something must be strong but light. Non-ferrous metals contain no iron, and this allows them to have a high corrosion and rust resistance. They are used in instances such as road signs, gutters and roofing. They are also not magnetic. If you want to learn more about metals, contact Tennessee Metals Company, LLC.

Why You Should Recycle Your Scrap Metal

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Are you doing some cleaning around your home and noticed that you have a lot of scrap metal lying around? Before you toss it on the curb, consider recycling it instead. To see why it’s important to recycle your scrap metal, consider the following benefits.

It Conserves Energy

Did you know that recycling metal actually conserves energy and reduces the amount of greenhouse gasses that are emitted into the atmosphere? That’s because reusing recycled metal takes much less time since it has already been refined and doesn’t need to be done again.

It Saves Natural Resources

Not only does recycling metal cut down on greenhouse emissions, but it also conserves natural resources by reducing the time spent on the mining process.

You Can Make Money

There is a demand for scrap metal, so you can actually earn some extra cash by recycling yours. Many industries require their products to use a certain percentage of recycled materials, which drives up the value of scrap metal.

You’ll Stimulate the Economy

By reusing your scrap metal through recycling, you’re also doing your part to stimulate the economy. There are companies that rely on your old metal to produce goods to sell, so when you recycle your scrap you are helping those businesses stay open.

As you sift through your belongings, take time to set aside your scrap metal for recycling. Your wallet, the environment and local businesses will thank you for it. To learn more about the benefits of scrap metal recycling, contact Tennessee Metals Company, LLC.