The Ultimate Guide to Scrap Metal Buying, Selling & Recycling in Singapore

Types of Scrap Metal

Scrap metal comes in various forms, each with its unique characteristics and value. In Singapore, both ferrous and non-ferrous metals are commonly bought, sold, and recycled. These include aluminium, copper, and steel, among others. Households often contribute to the scrap metal supply through items such as aluminium cans, copper wiring, old appliances, and brass fixtures. The value of these metals varies depending on their type and condition.

Industries, too, generate significant amounts of scrap metal. Construction and demolition projects yield steel beams and pipes, while manufacturing processes create offcuts and turnings. End-of-life machinery and vehicles also find their way into the scrap metal recycling stream. Advance Recycling’s expertise lies in accurately identifying and valuing these diverse scrap metals, ensuring fair prices for sellers and high-quality materials for buyers.

The Process of Scrap Metal Recycling

Scrap metal recycling, in particular, plays a vital role, with Singapore leading the charge with its robust industry. This blog post delves into the intricate journey of scrap metal recycling in Singapore.

Step 1: Collection – The Initial Phase

The journey begins with gathering scrap metal from diverse sources like construction sites, industrial premises, and households. In Singapore, numerous scrap metal dealers and recycling firms offer pickup services, simplifying the process for both individuals and businesses to partake in responsible disposal.

Step 2: Sorting – Distinguishing the Metals

Following collection, the crucial task of sorting the metals ensues. This step involves segregating ferrous metals, such as steel and iron, from non-ferrous counterparts like aluminum, copper, and brass. Sorting is essential for streamlining the recycling process and ensuring the recycled metal’s quality.

Step 3: Processing – Purification

Once sorted, the scrap metal undergoes a cleansing process to eliminate any contaminants or non-metal materials. This might entail manual sorting or the use of technology, including magnets, shredders, and granulators, aiming to enhance the quality of the final product.

Step 4: Compaction – Volume Reduction

To facilitate easier transportation, the processed metal is compacted into bales or blocks, significantly reducing its volume. This step is achieved through hydraulic machines, optimizing space and transportation efficiency.

Step 5: Melting – Transformation

The compacted metal is then transported to smelting facilities to be melted down in large furnaces. This stage further purifies the metal, eliminating any remaining impurities and preparing it for refinement and reshaping into new products.

Step 6: Refining – Specification Alignment

The molten metal undergoes refinement to meet specific requirements for various applications. This may include alloying or adjusting its composition to cater to different manufacturing demands.

Step 7: Casting – Molding the Recycled Metal

After refinement, the metal is cast into shapes like ingots, bars, or rods, tailored to its future use. These products are then dispatched to manufacturers, ready to begin their new life in the production cycle.

Step 8: Distribution – Closing the Loop

The final stage involves distributing these recycled metal products to manufacturers, who incorporate them into new items. This practice not only mitigates environmental impact but also champions sustainability.

The Benefits of Scrap Metal Recycling

Scrap metal recycling offers a multitude of environmental and economic benefits. By reducing reliance on mining and minimising landfill waste, it conserves natural resources and decreases energy consumption compared to primary metal production. Moreover, the recycling industry creates green jobs, boosts Singapore’s circular economy, and provides financial opportunities for individuals and businesses selling scrap.

How to Buy and Sell Scrap Metal in Singapore

For those looking to sell scrap metal, understanding the factors that influence prices is key. Global market demand, metal type, grade, purity, weight, and quantity all play a role in determining the value of scrap. When choosing a buyer, consider their reputation, services, and commitment to environmental responsibility.  To maximise returns, sellers should sort their scrap by metal type, remove non-metal components, and consider size limitations. On the buying side, recycled metal products offer a sustainable alternative to virgin materials. However, responsible sourcing and quality control are essential to ensure the integrity of the recycled products.

Legal Regulations and Guidelines

The scrap metal industry in Singapore operates within a framework of legal regulations and guidelines. Permits, licences, and environmental standards must be adhered to, ensuring that recycling practices are safe, efficient, and eco-friendly. 

Conclusion

Scrap metal buying, selling, and recycling play a vital role in shaping a sustainable future for Singapore. By participating in this circular economy, individuals and businesses can contribute to reducing waste, conserving resources, and supporting green initiatives. Advance Recycling stands ready to assist in this endeavour, offering expertise, responsible practices, and a commitment to excellence. Together, we can build a greener tomorrow, one piece of scrap metal at a time.