Scrap metal recycling is an important industry, both environmentally and economically. Whether you're a homeowner clearing out a garage or a business dealing with industrial waste, understanding the potential value of your scrap metal can be beneficial. This calculator helps you get an estimate based on common metal types and their approximate market prices.
How Scrap Metal Prices Are Determined
Several factors influence the price you'll receive for your scrap metal:
Metal Type: Different metals have vastly different values. Precious metals like gold and silver are at the top, followed by non-ferrous metals like copper, brass, and aluminum. Ferrous metals like steel and iron generally command lower prices.
Purity and Grade: The cleaner and purer the metal, the higher its value. For example, #1 Bare Bright Copper (clean, unalloyed, uninsulated wire) fetches a higher price than #2 Copper (which might have solder, paint, or light oxidation).
Market Demand: Global supply and demand for raw materials significantly impact scrap metal prices. Economic conditions, industrial production, and even geopolitical events can cause prices to fluctuate daily.
Quantity: Larger quantities of scrap metal often allow recyclers to offer better per-pound rates due to economies of scale in processing and transportation.
Local Yard Policies: Prices can vary between different scrap yards based on their current inventory, processing capabilities, and business models. It's always wise to call around for the best local rates.
How to Use the Scrap Metal Calculator
Select Metal Type: Choose the type of metal you have from the dropdown menu. Common options include various grades of copper, aluminum, brass, and steel.
Enter Weight: Input the total weight of your scrap metal in pounds (lbs). Ensure your measurement is accurate for the best estimate.
Click "Calculate Value": The calculator will then provide an estimated monetary value for your scrap.
Example Calculation
Let's say you have 150 lbs of #1 Bare Bright Copper. Using the calculator:
Metal Type: Copper (#1 Bare Bright)
Weight: 150 lbs
If the current market price for #1 Bare Bright Copper is $3.50 per pound, the estimated value would be:
150 lbs * $3.50/lb = $525.00
This calculator provides an estimate. Actual prices may vary based on current market conditions and the specific scrap yard you visit.
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function calculateScrapValue() {
var metalType = document.getElementById("metalType").value;
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// Define prices per pound for different metal types (these are illustrative and fluctuate)
switch (metalType) {
case "copper1":
pricePerPound = 3.50; // Example price for #1 Bare Bright Copper
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case "copper2":
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case "aluminum":
pricePerPound = 0.60; // Example price for Clean Aluminum
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case "brass":
pricePerPound = 2.00; // Example price for Yellow Brass
break;
case "steel":
pricePerPound = 0.10; // Example price for Light Iron/Steel
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";
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