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Eggersmann Recycling Technology

Recycling scrap metal

Metal scrap recycling plays a crucial role in protecting the environment and the sustainable use of resources. By correctly collecting, sorting and processing scrap metal, valuable raw materials can be recovered and the environmental impact of metal production can be significantly reduced.

I. Why is the collection of scrap metal so important for the environment?

Scrap metal collection is important for recycling for several reasons. Some key ones are:

  • Conservation of resources
    Metals such as iron, aluminium and copper are valuable raw materials that can be recovered through recycling. By collecting scrap metal and processing it further, we can reduce the need for primary metal ores, which leads to the conservation of natural resources.
  • Saving energy
    The production of metals from primary sources requires a considerable amount of energy. By recycling scrap metal, energy requirements can be significantly reduced. It has been found that recycling aluminium, for example, requires only about 5% of the energy needed to produce primary aluminium.
  • Reducing the environmental impact
    The extraction of metals from ores is a resource-intensive and environmentally damaging activity. It is associated with environmental impacts such as soil and water pollution, deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling scrap metal significantly reduces these impacts and helps to reduce the ecological footprint.

II. How does metal recycling work?

The recycling of metal essentially takes place as follows:

  • Collection and sorting
    The first step in metal scrap recycling is to collect and sort it correctly. This can be done by municipal collection points, recycling centres, scrap yards or specialised collectors and dealers. The scrap metal should be sorted according to metal type (e.g. iron, aluminium, copper) and condition (e.g. scrap, old appliances) to enable efficient processing.
  • Processing
    After sorting, the scrap metal is processed to remove impurities. This includes, for example, the removal of paints, colours or plastics. Metals can also be melted and separated from foreign substances. This process ensures that the recycled metal is of high quality and suitable for further processing steps.
  • Melting and refining
    The recycled metal is melted in a smelting furnace to bring it to a liquid state. Impurities can be further removed using refining processes. The molten metal is then cast into ingots or blocks to make it ready for transport and further use.

III Where is recycled metal reused?

Recycled metal can be used as a raw material for the manufacture of new metal products. It is used in various industries such as the automotive industry, the construction industry, the electronics industry and the packaging industry.

IV. What are the challenges associated with recycling metal?

  • Logistics and transport
    Transporting scrap metal to recycling facilities can be costly and energy intensive.
  • Technical challenges
    Some metal alloys or compounds can be difficult to recycle and require specialised processes.
  • Limited availability of scrap metal
    Although scrap metal is abundant, in some regions it can be difficult to collect sufficient quantities for an efficient recycling infrastructure.

Metal scrap recycling is of great importance for the environment and the sustainability of the metal processing industry. By collecting, sorting and processing scrap metal, valuable raw materials can be recovered, energy can be saved and environmental pollution can be reduced. Recycled metal is used in various sectors such as the automotive, construction and electronics industries. Although there are challenges, metal scrap recycling offers significant environmental added value and helps to promote a sustainable circular economy.