For dumpster, container, and large loads please call
If you take your scrap metal to a dealer, they might have asked you to sort it. However, many people don’t know how to sort their metals by their properties. To make it easier for you, we have gathered some information. Throughout this article, we will go through the four tests to help you determine metal properties, like the surface examination, spark, magnet, and hardness test, and how M&M Recycling can help.
The first test includes examining the surface of the metals to look for their colors, whether they have stains, and how they feel. If, for example, you have a cast iron in your hand, it most likely has a dark gray tint, whereas cast steel has a lighter color with depressions on the surface. One thing that you always have to keep in mind is that some metals change color when they oxidize. Copper, which normally has a reddish color, can be seen green when it oxidizes. At the same time, brass and bronze turn from the natural colors of red and yellow to green and brown. Lastly, metals like cast steel and stainless steel have a rough texture. Copper, nickel, and bronze have smooth surfaces.
Another very good method to identify different metals is a spark test. If you have an abrasive wheel, you can lightly have the metal touch it and identify its type by the color, form, and length of spike it makes. The spark of each metal is different. With the friction produced, the metals can glow. Nickel makes short and orange spikes, whereas carbon steel makes long and white spikes. In addition, the friction can also remove the oxidized part of the metal, allowing you to identify its type easily. Learn more about the sparks that different metals can produce by calling M&M Recycling today.
A magnet test is a very good and easy method to detect ferrous metals. These metals naturally have magnetic iron inside themselves. Get a normal-sized magnet and touch the metal with it. If it's a ferrous metal, it will stick. Although this test seems effective, it can’t always be reliable. For example, some stainless steel is not magnetic despite being a ferrous metal containing iron. If you would like to learn more about the hardness test, call a scrap metal company today.
The last test we will cover is the hardness test. There are three main types of tests to understand the hardness of a metal: Rockwell Hardness, file, and the Mohs Hardness test. Rockwell Hardness test looks at the indentation of the tool while applying force. The file test tries to cut into the material. The Mohs Hardness test scratches the metal with a tool to know its hardness.
Where can you find a reliable scrap metal buyer trusted by its community? At M&M Recycling, we have always served our community with honor. As one of Atlanta's top-paying scrap metal buyers, we are dedicated to this field. Call us today to learn how you can save the environment by starting scrap metal recycling today.
